Toe nails do not naturally ingrow. the condition is caused by subjecting the nail plate to a combination of heat, moisture, trauma, improper nail trimming or persistent pressure such as ill fitting shoes that forces the nail inside the soft tissues of the skin. This can be very painful especially if the surrounding area becomes infected. 

 

If left untreated, an ingrown nail can leave your toe vulnerable to infection which can spread to the rest of the body. 

The most common cause of ingrown toe nail is incorrect nail cutting. Cutting the nail plate or its corners too low allows the flesh of the toe to rise up in front of the free edge of the plate which is then pressed into the skin. 

Treatment of an ingrown toe nail is dependent on the severity of the condition and if infection is present. All that may be required is to remove the offending nail portion which can bring immediate relief to the patient.  In severe or recurrent cases and where conservative methods of treatment have not worked, nail surgery may be required.  This is where part of the nail or the whole nail may be removed,  known as a partial or total nail avulsion.  Please note that Rosewood Foot Health Care (The Foot Doctor) do not carry out nail surgery but we do treat the infection and the discomfort caused by ingrown toenails with non-invasive methods.