Ingrown Toenail Treatment

Painful, swollen or infected ingrown toenail?

Whether your ingrown toenail has only recently developed or has been causing problems for years, our experienced podiatrists provide expert assessment and personalised treatment to relieve pain, treat infection and help prevent it from coming back.

Many people tell us they're surprised how much relief they feel once the problem has been properly treated.

Book your Ingrown Toenail Consultation today.

Could this be an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain down one or both sides of the nail

• Redness and swelling

• Tenderness when touched

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Pus or discharge

• Difficulty wearing shoes

• Pain when walking, running or playing sport

• A sharp, splinter-like pain down the side of the nail

If left untreated, symptoms often become progressively worse and the toe may become increasingly painful or infected.

What is an ingrown toenail?

Ingrown toenails are one of the most common conditions we treat at Callen Olive.

As the nail continues to grow into the surrounding skin, it creates ongoing pressure and irritation. This can lead to inflammation, pain and infection, making even simple activities such as walking, exercising or wearing shoes uncomfortable.

Although some mild cases can be managed conservatively, recurring or infected ingrown toenails often require professional treatment to resolve the problem and reduce the risk of it returning.

We regularly help adults and children find lasting relief from painful ingrown toenails.

Why has my toenail become ingrown?

There isn't always a single cause.

Common contributing factors include:

• Naturally curved or involuted nails

• Genetics and inherited nail shape

• Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners

• Tight or poorly fitting footwear

• Sporting activities

• Nail injury or trauma

• Excessive sweating

• Changes in foot shape

Often, several of these factors occur together.

How we can help

Your treatment will depend on the severity of the problem, whether infection is present and whether the nail has become a recurring issue.

Conservative treatment

For mild ingrown toenails, treatment may include:

• Removing the offending nail spike

• Reducing inflammation

• Nail care advice

• Footwear guidance

• Monitoring healing where appropriate

Nail spike removal

If your toe is particularly painful or infected, we may recommend removing the nail spike under local anaesthetic.

The toe is comfortably numbed before treatment, allowing the offending section of nail to be removed with minimal discomfort. Many patients experience immediate relief once the pressure has been removed.

Nail surgery

If your ingrown toenail repeatedly returns or has become a longstanding problem, nail surgery is often the most effective solution.

This minor procedure removes the problematic edge of the nail and treats the nail root to prevent that section from growing back.

With an approximate 95% success rate, nail surgery is considered the closest thing to a permanent solution for recurring ingrown toenails.

Following your assessment, your podiatrist will explain all suitable treatment options and help you decide on the most appropriate approach for your needs and lifestyle.

Pricing

Every treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment so we can recommend the most appropriate treatment for you.

If you're unsure which appointment is most appropriate, our Patient Care Team will be happy to help.

Book your appointment

You don't have to live with ongoing pain, swelling or repeated infection.

Whether your ingrown toenail has recently developed or has been troubling you for years, we're here to help.

Book your Ingrown Toenail Consultation today and take the first step towards lasting relief.

Why Patients Choose Callen Olive

Your feet deserve more than treatment.

At Callen Olive, we believe exceptional podiatry is about far more than relieving pain.

It's about understanding how your feet affect your comfort, confidence and the way you move through life.

Every person who walks through our doors has different goals, which is why every treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs, lifestyle and ambitions.

Because no two people — or feet — are the same.

Expert Care. Personally Delivered.

We combine specialist clinical expertise, advanced technology and genuinely personalised care to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

From your first appointment, you'll understand what's causing your symptoms, the treatment options available and how we'll support you every step of the way.

Why Patients Choose Callen Olive

• Specialist podiatry team
• Personalised treatment plans
• Advanced technology
• Evidence-based care
• Award-winning patient experience
• Trusted by thousands of patients every year

More Than A Podiatry Appointment

Exceptional care isn't just about clinical expertise.

It's about feeling listened to, understood and supported from the moment you arrive until long after your treatment has finished.

Because that's what great care should feel like.

We Care.

It's more than our promise.

It's how we listen, how we explain, how we treat and how we support every patient who places their trust in us.

Because helping you move with comfort, confidence and ease is why Callen Olive exists.

Healthy Feet. Healthy Body. Healthy Mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my ingrown toenail grow out on its own?

Usually not. Once the nail has pierced the surrounding skin it often continues to cause irritation until the offending section of nail is removed.

Will antibiotics cure my ingrown toenail?

Antibiotics can help treat infection, but they do not remove the nail causing the problem. In many cases, further treatment is still required.

Does cutting a V into the nail work?

No. This is a common myth and does not change the way the nail grows.

Is nail surgery painful?

No. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so your toe is numb throughout treatment. Most patients find the recovery much easier than they expected.

Can children develop ingrown toenails?

Yes. Ingrown toenails are common in children and teenagers, particularly if they are active in sport or naturally have curved nails.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery depends on the treatment provided, but most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days. Your podiatrist will provide personalised aftercare advice.

Further information

Why early treatment matters

Many people try to manage an ingrown toenail at home for weeks or even months before seeking professional advice.

Unfortunately, once the nail has pierced the skin, it rarely resolves without treatment and often becomes increasingly painful.

Early treatment may:

• Relieve pain more quickly

• Prevent infection worsening

• Reduce swelling and inflammation

• Lower the risk of repeated episodes

• Help you return to normal activities sooner

Infected ingrown toenails

As infection develops, the toe may become:

• Red

• Swollen

• Warm

• Increasingly painful

• Filled with pus or discharge

If you suspect your ingrown toenail has become infected, we recommend arranging an assessment as soon as possible.

Common myths

"It will eventually grow out."

Unfortunately, this is rarely the case once the nail has grown into the skin.

"Antibiotics will solve the problem."

Antibiotics help control infection but do not remove the nail causing the irritation.

"Cutting a V into the nail fixes it."

There is no evidence that this changes the way the nail grows.

Preventing future ingrown toenails

Although not every ingrown toenail can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Cutting nails straight across

• Avoiding cutting nails too short

• Wearing correctly fitting footwear

• Seeking treatment for recurring nail problems

• Protecting your nails from injury during sport

Related conditions

• Fungal Toenails

• Children's Foot Health

• Diabetes & Foot Health

Related treatments

• Nail Surgery

• Foot Health Consultation