Ingrown Toenail: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Ingrown Toenail?
A primary care doctor can often treat an ingrown toenail. A podiatrist, a foot doctor, can remove part of the nail if needed. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin of the toe. Ingrown toenails are common and painful, particularly among teenagers. The great toe is affected most often. But any toenail can become ingrown.
Symptoms
There may be pain, redness, and swelling around the nail. At first, the toe may be hard, swollen, and tender. Infection may soon follow. Sometimes a small amount of pus drains from the area.
In severe cases, the infection can spread through the toe and into the bone.
Causes and who gets it
Poorly fitting shoes and toenails that are not trimmed properly are the most common causes. Shoes that are too tight put extra pressure on your toe. If you walk often or play sports, a shoe that is even a little tight can cause this problem.
Some nail trimming habits can also cause an ingrown toenail:
- Trimming the nails too short.
- Rounding the edges instead of cutting straight across.
- Picking or tearing at the corners of the nails.
Poor eyesight, trouble reaching the toes, or thick nails can make nails hard to trim well.
Some people are born with nails that are curved and grow into the skin. Others have toenails that are too large for their toes. Stubbing your toe or other injuries can also lead to an ingrown toenail. Deformities of the foot or toes can also place extra pressure on the toe.
How doctors diagnose it
Your health care provider will examine your toenail and ask about your symptoms. Tests or x-rays are not usually needed.
Treatment
Treat an ingrown toenail as soon as you notice it. Early home care may prevent the need for more treatment. Home care includes these steps:
- Soak the foot in warm water 3 to 4 times a day if possible.
- Keep the toe dry after soaking.
- Wear comfortable shoes with enough room for the toes. Consider sandals until the problem goes away.
- Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail.
- You may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
Do not try to cut out the ingrown part of the nail yourself. This will only make the problem worse.
If the ingrown nail does not heal or keeps coming back, your provider may remove part of the nail. Numbing medicine is first injected into the toe. Then the ingrown part of the nail is removed. This is called a partial nail avulsion. It takes 2 to 4 months for the nail to regrow.
If the toe is infected, your provider may prescribe antibiotics. Removing the whole nail makes it more likely that the nail will grow back deformed.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider right away if you have diabetes, nerve problems in the leg or foot, poor blood circulation to your foot, or an infection around the nail. Do not try to treat an ingrown nail at home in these cases.
Also contact your provider if you have severe pain, redness, swelling, or fever. Call your doctor if the toe does not improve in 2 to 3 days or gets worse.
This condition may become serious in people with diabetes, poor blood circulation, and nerve problems.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either type of doctor can examine your toe and ask about your symptoms. If home care does not work and the nail gets worse, see your provider or a foot specialist, called a podiatrist.
Common questions
Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
Sometimes you can, but not if you have diabetes, nerve problems, poor blood flow to the foot, or an infection. Otherwise, home care includes soaking the foot in warm water 3 to 4 times a day.
Can I cut out the ingrown part myself?
No, do not try to cut out the ingrown part of the nail yourself. This will only make the problem worse.
Can an ingrown toenail come back?
Yes, it is likely to return if you do not practice good foot care.
How can I prevent an ingrown toenail?
Wear shoes that fit properly, with plenty of room around your toes. Trim toenails straight across. Do not round the corners or trim too short. Do not pick or tear at the nails.
How long does a nail take to grow back after part of it is removed?
It takes 2 to 4 months for the nail to regrow.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
