Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, or even infection. While it might start as mild irritation, it can quickly become a painful and recurring problem without proper treatment.
Common causes of ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails can develop for several reasons, including:
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Trimming the toenail too short or cutting down the sides, leaving a sharp nail edge or “spike.”
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A naturally curved nail shape that encourages the nail to dig into the skin.
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Toe injuries or stubbing the toe.
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Pressure from tight shoes or socks.
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Corns or calluses growing near the nail edge.
If left untreated, an infected ingrown toenail can cause significant pain and may require surgical intervention. That’s why early professional podiatry care is so important.
Ingrown toenail treatment at Waikato Podiatry
At Waikato Podiatry Clinic in Hamilton, our experienced podiatrists will first carry out a thorough assessment to determine the best treatment option for you.
For mild or short-term cases, a conservative approach is often effective. This might include carefully trimming and reshaping the affected nail to relieve pressure and guide proper regrowth.
For more severe or recurring cases, a minor toenail surgery may be recommended. This is a well-established and highly successful procedure (with a 95% success rate) that removes the problematic section of the nail and prevents it from growing back.
What to expect from toenail surgery
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so it’s completely painless. No stitches are required, and a special chemical is applied to prevent regrowth and minimise post-procedure discomfort.
Most patients can walk comfortably the next day. Your podiatrist will schedule 2–3 follow-up appointments to change dressings and monitor healing.
Get expert help for ingrown toenails
Don’t let toenail pain slow you down. Whether it’s a one-off irritation or a recurring issue, our expert podiatrists can help you find lasting relief.
Still in pain?
Are you are feeling like you have tried everything but are still in pain?
We have a track record of diagnosing and successfully treating cases that have previously proven difficult to resolve and we'd love to help you get back on your feet doing what you love.
