Items filtered by date: September 2025

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most often affects the big toe, especially along the lateral edge. Causes include hereditary nail shape, poorly fitting shoes that compress the toes, trauma, and trimming nails too short or with rounded corners. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and provide the appropriate treatment, which may include surgery in recurring or severe cases. Conservative options involve carefully lifting and supporting the nail edge to reduce pressure on the skin. In more advanced cases, a podiatrist may recommend partial removal of the nail or removal of the nail matrix, the tissue located under the base of the nail, just beneath the cuticle and behind the nail plate, to prevent regrowth in the affected section. These approaches relieve pain, correct the ingrown edge, and lower the risk of infection or complications. If you have a problematic ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you suchedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Steven Ginex, DPM of Palm Desert Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palm Desert, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.