Onychocryptosis, which is most commonly known as an ingrown toenail, is a condition that is commonly presented to podiatrists. An ingrown toenail can result from nail growing into the paronychium which is the flesh surrounding the nail, or from growth of the paronychium inwards into the nail bed.     

It is an often-painful condition which starts with inflammation of the flesh surrounding the nail. Redness, swelling, pain and sometimes pus can occur at the affected nail. If left untreated at this stage, hypergranulation tissue, which is an overgrowth of tissue due to prolonged inflammation, infection or the presence of a foreign substance, may form.

What causes this condition?

There is no single cause for ingrown toenails. Some of the causes of an ingrown toenail include pressure from poor fitting shoes, trauma to the nail, improper cutting technique, and a slightly deformation of the toenails, due to trauma or hereditary factors.

The good news is that ingrown toenails can be managed. Here’s what you can do.

• No more bathroom surgery! – Hacking away at the toenail yourself will only make things worse. Using non-sterile and often unsuitable instruments can lead to significant deformity and infection of the nail.  
• Ditch those ill-fitting shoes – Invest in shoes with more room around the toes. You don’t want too much pressure from footwear against the affected nail.
• Follow basic hygiene – Clean the affected nail with antibacterial soap and apply antiseptic daily, ensuring you keep the nail covered.
• Control the bacterial load – Soak the toe in warm water and salt for 15 minutes a day.
• Cut the nail right – Trim the nail straight across from one corner to the other, following the contour of your nail. Avoid digging in the corners and avoid cutting the nail too short.
• Seek assistance – Visit your podiatrist early in the case of ingrown toenails, don’t wait until there is an infection.

Your podiatrist can assist by removing both nail spikes and ingrown toenails without local anaesthetic. If the nail is severely ingrown, they can also use local anaesthetic to numb your toe to remove an ingrown toenail painlessly. For a more permanent solution, they can perform a small surgical procedure to remove a wedge or section of the nail and applying a chemical to stop that section of the nail growing back. This permanent solution is great for those who keep getting ingrown toenails on the same toe. Additionally, they can use other treatment options to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.