Ingrown Toenail

What is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis, is a common condition in which the edge or corner of the nail — most often the big toe — grows into the surrounding skin. This penetration causes intense pain, inflammation, and can, without treatment, progress to a serious bacterial infection.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Incorrect nail trimming (cut too short or rounded at the corners)
• Wearing shoes that are too tight or too narrow, compressing the toes
• Trauma or repeated impact on the nail
• Excessive foot sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Genetic predisposition to a curved nail shape
• Intense sports activities (running, soccer, martial arts)
• Nail fungus deforming nail growth

Symptoms

• Sharp, throbbing pain on the side of the nail
• Redness, swelling, and warmth around the nail
• Irritated skin or fleshy tissue (hypergranulation) developing around the nail
• Discharge of serous fluid or pus in case of infection
• Difficulty walking or wearing closed shoes
• Progressive worsening without appropriate treatment

Podiatric Treatment

Your podiatrist at Clinique Claire Fontaine assesses the severity of the ingrown toenail and recommends the most appropriate treatment for your situation:

• Partial nail resection: removal of the ingrown edge under local anaesthesia, with immediate pain relief
• Chemical matricectomy (phenolization): destruction of the nail matrix with phenol to prevent regrowth of the problematic edge — a permanent solution for recurrent cases
• Infection treatment: cleaning, drainage, and antibiotic prescription if necessary
• Nail brace (orthonyxia): a non-surgical device that gradually straightens a curved nail
• Personalized advice on correct nail trimming technique and appropriate footwear selection

Prevention

To prevent ingrown toenails, it is essential to cut nails straight across without rounding the corners, and at a sufficient length to avoid growing into the skin. It is also recommended to wear shoes with adequate toe room, keep feet clean and dry, and visit your podiatrist regularly for preventive nail care.