Ingrown toenail

An ingrown toenail (medical term: unguis incarnatus) occurs when the edge of a nail grows sideways into the surrounding skin and injures it. It almost always affects the big toe and causes pressure, pain and often inflammation of the nail fold.

With an ingrown toenail, a sharp corner of the nail digs into the soft tissue on the side. The body reacts with redness, swelling and pain; over time a bacterial infection and so-called «proud flesh» (excess granulation tissue) may develop. Typical triggers include cutting the nails too short or too round, tight shoes, heavy sweating, injuries or an inherited nail shape.

Treatment depends on the severity. In mild cases, foot baths, careful foot care and gently lifting the nail edge help, sometimes with a tamponade or a nail brace that slowly straightens the nail. For recurring or heavily inflamed cases, a doctor or podologist performs a minor procedure to remove the ingrown edge of the nail (Emmert plasty).

You should seek professional help if you have pain, pus or marked swelling, if the toe is affected repeatedly, or if you have diabetes, circulatory problems or a weakened immune system. In these cases self-treatment is risky.

When choosing a specialist, look for clean, hygienic working practices, clear information about the procedure and any aftercare, and an honest cost estimate. Common mistakes are cutting out the corner yourself and wearing tight shoes again after treatment.

Example

A runner from Winterthur notices after a half marathon that the edge of his big toe is red, warm and tender. He first tries lukewarm foot baths and looser shoes, but after a few days pus develops. He books an appointment with a podologist nearby, who treats the nail edge properly and shows him how to cut his nails straight in future.

Frequently asked

When should I see a specialist for an ingrown toenail?

Seek help as soon as you have pain, pus or marked swelling, or if the toe is affected repeatedly. This is especially important with diabetes, circulatory problems or a weakened immune system, because even small wounds can become dangerous. Until your appointment, lukewarm foot baths and comfortable, wide shoes help.

Can I treat an ingrown toenail myself?

For mild symptoms without inflammation you may try foot baths and gently lifting the nail edge. However, do not cut the corner out deeply yourself, as this often makes the problem worse. With pus, severe pain or recurring cases the treatment belongs in professional hands.

What does treating an ingrown toenail cost in Switzerland?

The cost depends heavily on whether simple podological care, a nail brace or a minor medical procedure is needed. Medical procedures are usually covered by basic insurance when medically necessary, while purely cosmetic or podological services often are not. Ask for a transparent cost estimate in advance.

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