Item: Leading Edge Podiatry
Rating: 5
Author: Morgans Car Channel

Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and often infection. This condition can affect people of all ages and may become a recurring issue if not managed correctly.

At Leading Edge Podiatry, we specialise in effective, long-term solutions for ingrown toenails—including conservative care, bracing, and minor nail surgery. If an infection is present, Jason Kuang, our experienced podiatrist, can prescribe antibiotics when necessary to help control the infection and aid healing.

Why Do Ingrown Toenails Happen?

There are several reasons why toenails may become ingrown. Understanding the cause is key to treating and preventing future problems.

1. Trauma to the Nail

Stubbing or knocking your toe can damage both the nail and surrounding skin. This trauma creates an entry point for bacteria, leading to infection and swelling.

2. Poor Nail Cutting Technique

Cutting your nails too short or leaving jagged edges can cause the nail to dig into the skin as it grows. This is one of the most common causes of ingrown toenails.

3. Nail Picking or Tearing

Tearing or picking at the toenails can leave sharp, uneven edges that easily pierce the skin and cause pain or infection.

4. Nail Shape

Some people are born with naturally curved or involuted nails, while others develop curling nails over time due to footwear, gait patterns, or age. These nail shapes can press into the skin and cause discomfort—even without an infection.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails

We offer a range of treatment options tailored to the severity and cause of your ingrown toenail:

1. Antibiotics (If Needed)

If there’s infection, Jason Kuang can prescribe antibiotics to help reduce pain and swelling. However, antibiotics alone won’t solve the underlying issue if the nail is still digging into the skin.

2. Conservative Nail Care

Our first approach is to gently and safely remove the edge of the nail causing the problem. This often brings immediate relief and avoids the need for surgery.

3. Onyfix Nail Bracing

For curly or involuted nails, we offer Onyfix nail bracing—a non-invasive, pain-free solution that gradually re-shapes the nail to reduce pressure and recurrence.

4. Ingrown Toenail Surgery

If conservative care isn’t successful, minor in-clinic nail surgery may be recommended. This safe procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and aims to remove the ingrown portion of the nail permanently. Our podiatrists have extensive experience with this procedure and will guide you through it with care.

❓ Still have questions about ingrown toenails?
Visit our Ingrown Toenail FAQ page. Our Ingrown Toenail FAQs provide clear answers to the most common questions.

Let’s Get You Back on Your Feet

If you’re dealing with a painful or infected ingrown toenail, don’t wait. At Leading Edge Podiatry, we’ll provide fast, gentle, and effective treatment to relieve your symptoms and help prevent future recurrences.

👉 Book Online Now
📞 Or call us on 08 7120 6063 to speak with our experienced podiatry team