Ingrown Toenails / Onychocryptosis
An ingrown toenail develops when a nail edge presses into or breaks the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can make shoes, walking or even light touch painful. Repeated episodes deserve a plan beyond trimming the corner again.
What you may notice
- Tenderness along one or both nail edges
- Redness, swelling or overgrown skin
- Drainage or increasing pain if infection develops
How we assess it
We examine the nail shape, skin and circulation, and ask about previous episodes. This helps determine whether conservative care or a nail procedure is appropriate.
Treatment and next steps
Care may include removing an irritating nail edge and reducing pressure. For recurrent cases, partial nail removal under local anaesthetic may be discussed, sometimes with treatment of the nail root to reduce regrowth. We explain healing, aftercare, risks and recurrence before proceeding. Antibiotics are not a substitute for assessing the nail itself.
When to seek care
Do not dig into the nail. Seek prompt care for pus, spreading redness or worsening pain; fever or feeling unwell needs urgent medical advice. Arrange early assessment if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Questions to discuss before treatment
Will I need a nail procedure?
Not every ingrown nail needs surgery. The assessment considers how often it returns, the nail’s shape, skin changes and your health. Tell us whether previous trimming helped only briefly. We can explain the purpose of conservative care and when a procedure may be worth considering.
Can I go back to work straight away?
That depends on your job, footwear and the procedure. Mention safety boots, standing shifts or driving before choosing a date. Read our guide to work, footwear and recovery after a nail procedure.
What if online booking is full?
Call the clinic to ask about an earlier assessment. A same-day time must be confirmed; do not travel without an appointment. An emergency appointment surcharge may apply and will be discussed before booking.
Foot care in Hamilton & Stoney Creek
Navraj (Nav) Sekhon and Elias Mohamed, chiropodists at Locke Minor Foot Surgery & Orthotics, can assess your concern and explain the next step. No referral is needed to book.