Painful Ingrown Toenail? Get Relief Fast | Foot & Ankle Centers

Ingrown toenails might seem like a small issue, but anyone who has experienced one knows how painful they can be. This common condition can make walking, exercising, or even wearing shoes uncomfortable. The good news? With early care and the right treatment, you can stop an ingrown toenail from turning into a more serious problem.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of your nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness, and swelling. While any toe can be affected, it’s most common on the big toe. If left untreated, the area can become infected, leading to tenderness, drainage, and in severe cases, difficulty walking.

Several factors can cause or worsen ingrown toenails, including:

• Improper nail trimming – Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage them to grow into the skin.

• Tight shoes or socks – Footwear that squeezes your toes together can push nails inward.

• Injury or repeated trauma – Stubbing your toe or pressure from sports can change the nail’s growth pattern.

• Genetics – Some people simply have naturally curved toenails, making them more prone to this issue.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Treleven, and Dr. Knapp help patients throughout Little Elm, Frisco, and McKinney find relief from ingrown toenails through gentle, effective care—preventing recurring pain and infection before it worsens.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

Preventing ingrown toenails is often a matter of small, consistent habits. Here are some simple tips from our podiatry team at Foot & Ankle Centers:

1. Trim your nails straight across – Avoid curving the corners or cutting them too short. A straight edge helps prevent the nail from growing into the surrounding skin.

2. Wear shoes that fit properly – Tight or narrow shoes can press on your toes, increasing pressure along the nail edges. Choose shoes with enough room in the toe box for your toes to move freely.

3. Keep your feet clean and dry – Moisture can soften the skin around your nails, making it easier for nails to pierce the skin.

4. Avoid picking or tearing nails – Always use clean, sharp nail clippers instead of pulling or tearing nails by hand.

5. Check your feet regularly – Especially important for those with diabetes or poor circulation. Early detection can prevent infection and complications.

Home Care for Mild Ingrown Toenails

If you notice mild redness or tenderness, you may be able to manage the issue at home before it becomes severe. Try these steps:

• Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 15–20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and soften the skin.

• Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover the area with a clean bandage to help prevent infection.

• Wear open-toed or roomy shoes until the nail grows out and the discomfort subsides.

However, if the pain worsens, drainage appears, or you have an underlying medical condition, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Attempting to dig out the nail yourself can cause further injury and increase the risk of infection. Our doctors are ready to assist you at any of our three locations: McKinney, Little Elm, or Frisco.

Professional Treatment Options

These treatments are standard procedures for ingrown toenails commonly performed at podiatry clinics like Foot & Ankle Centers.

• Nail edge removal (partial nail avulsion): A routine in-office procedure done under local anesthesia to remove the ingrown edge and relieve pressure.

• Partial or full nail matrix removal: Used for chronic or recurring cases to prevent the ingrown portion from growing back.

• Antibiotic therapy: Prescribed if infection is present to reduce inflammation and aid healing.

These procedures are quick, virtually painless, and can provide long-term relief—allowing you to walk comfortably again. Our doctors will provide a thorough exam to determine best course of action for you at Foot & Ankle Centers. We also provide prevention procedures.

When to See a Foot Specialist

You should schedule an appointment if:

• Pain persists or worsens despite home care

• There is drainage, pus, or foul odor

• The skin around the nail becomes red, warm, or swollen

• You have diabetes, poor circulation, or neuropathy

Prompt treatment not only relieves discomfort but also prevents infection and complications. Reach out to our team at Foot & Ankle Centers today and visit the location nearest you for prompt treatment. 

Give Your Feet the Care They Deserve

Ingrown toenails may be common, but they don’t have to keep you off your feet. With proper care and professional treatment, you can find lasting relief and prevent the problem from returning.

If you’re dealing with foot pain or think you might have an ingrown toenail, don’t wait to get expert help. Book a consult with Dr. Knapp, Dr. Treleven, or Dr. Tavakoli, at Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney today.