Ingrown toenails are a common but painful foot problem that can affect anyone—especially those who are active, wear tight shoes, or have a genetic predisposition. Fortunately, with a few simple habits and the right care, you can greatly reduce your risk.
At Yeargain Foot & Ankle, our Dallas-based podiatrists Dr. Joseph Yeargain, Dr. Joseph Agyen and Dr. Kevan Patel treat ingrown toenails regularly. Here, we’re sharing our top podiatrist-recommended tips to help you prevent them—and guidance on when it’s time to seek professional treatment.
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. The most common causes include:
- Improper toenail trimming
- Wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes
- Trauma or repeated pressure to the toes
- Genetic predisposition to curved nails
- Poor foot hygiene
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
Here are five best practices that can help you avoid this uncomfortable condition:
1. Trim Toenails the Right Way
Cut your toenails straight across, not curved. Avoid cutting them too short, especially at the corners. Let the edges extend slightly beyond the skin to reduce the risk of them growing inward.
2. Wear Proper Footwear
Shoes that are too tight in the toe box can squeeze your toes and encourage nails to grow abnormally. Choose shoes that allow room for your toes to move freely, especially if you’re active or on your feet for long periods.
3. Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Wash your feet daily, dry them thoroughly, and keep your nails clean. Regular foot care helps reduce inflammation and prevents infections that can worsen or trigger ingrown toenails.
4. Protect Your Feet During Sports
If you’re a runner or athlete, ensure your shoes fit properly and your toenails are trimmed regularly. Repetitive trauma (like stubbing toes or stopping suddenly in tight shoes) is a leading cause of ingrown toenails.
5. Avoid At-Home Nail Digging
If you feel pain or see signs of a developing ingrown toenail, resist the urge to dig it out yourself. This often leads to infection and makes the problem worse. Always consult a professional for safe treatment.
When to See a Podiatrist
While mild discomfort might resolve with home care, seek professional help if you notice:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- Pus or signs of infection
- Redness that spreads
- Recurring ingrown nails
- Difficulty walking due to pain
At Yeargain Foot & Ankle in Dallas, we offer safe, effective treatments for ingrown toenails, including partial nail removal when necessary. For recurring issues, we also provide long-term solutions that can prevent the problem from coming back.
Don’t Wait—Get Relief Today
An ingrown toenail may seem minor, but it can lead to serious complications if ignored—especially for those with diabetes or circulation issues.
If you’re dealing with toe pain or suspect an ingrown toenail, schedule an appointment with our experienced team at Yeargain Foot & Ankle. We’re here to keep you on your feet—healthy, active, and pain-free.
