Ingrown Toenails in Whitby: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Ingrown toenails are one of the most common and painful nail problems we treat. They can happen at any age — during childhood, adolescence, or adulthood — and often make it difficult to wear shoes or even tolerate the pressure of bedsheets. The good news is that ingrown toenails are highly treatable, and most patients experience relief almost immediately after proper care.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, redness, swelling, and in some cases, infection. There are two main types of ingrown toenails:
Non‑Infected Ingrown Toenail
This is the most common type. It happens when the nail is naturally curved and begins to dig into the skin along the nail border.
Typical symptoms include:
- A sharp, knife‑like pain along the nail edge
- Redness and irritation
- A callus or corn forming in the nail groove
- Pain from even light pressure — socks, shoes, or bedsheets
What NOT to do
Avoid digging at the nail or trying to cut it yourself. This often makes the problem worse and can easily lead to infection.
How we treat it
Treatment is simple and highly effective. We gently remove a small sliver of nail from the affected border, relieving pressure immediately. Most patients walk out feeling significantly better and are pain‑free within 1–2 days.
Infected Ingrown Toenail
An infected ingrown toenail usually develops when the nail pierces the skin and continues to grow inward. This is often caused by improper nail cutting, trauma, or a naturally curved nail.
Signs of infection include:
- Increased pain
- Redness and swelling
- Warmth
- Drainage or pus
Treatment: Surgical Nail Decompression
For infected cases, a minor procedure is required:
- The toe is numbed for comfort
- A thin portion of the nail is removed down to the root
- A medical chemical is applied to prevent that section of nail from growing back
- An antibiotic may be prescribed if the infection is significant
This procedure prevents the ingrown portion from returning and provides long‑term relief.
When to Seek Treatment
You should book an appointment if:
- Your toe hurts inside your shoe
- The pressure of bedsheets causes pain
- You notice redness, swelling, or drainage
- You’ve been dealing with the problem for weeks or months
- Home care hasn’t helped
Delaying treatment often leads to infection and more discomfort — early care is always easier and less invasive.
Professional Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Whitby
Our foot specialists provide safe, effective treatment for both non‑infected and infected ingrown toenails. Whether you’re experiencing mild irritation or severe pain, we can help you get back to walking comfortably again. Book your appointment to relieve your pain