Ingrown Toenails
Painful, swollen, or infected nails have several effective treatment options — from conservative care and non-invasive NailLift™ to permanent in-office removal.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. The big toe is most commonly affected. While many people try to manage ingrown nails at home, recurrent or severe cases often require professional treatment.
Common Causes
- Improper nail trimming (cutting too short or rounding the edges)
- Tight or poorly fitting shoes
- Trauma to the toe (stubbing, dropping something on it)
- Family history of ingrown toenails
Signs & Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness along the side of the nail
- Redness and swelling around the nail edge
- Warmth or drainage (pus) if infected
- Difficulty wearing shoes or walking
- Overgrowth of skin around the nail (proud flesh / hypergranulation tissue)
Treatment Options
At Pathways Foot & Ankle, we offer a full range of treatments — from conservative care to in-office procedures. Surgery is not always necessary.
Conservative Care
- Warm water soaks with Epsom salt (2–3 times daily)
- Proper trimming — straight across, not curved
- Wearing open-toed or wide-width shoes
- Topical antibiotic ointment if signs of infection
In-Office Procedures
- Partial nail avulsion (removal of the ingrown border)
- Nail matrixectomy (permanent removal)
- NailLift™ — non-invasive nail brace technology
In-Office Procedures Explained
Nail Avulsion
After numbing the toe with local anesthesia, Dr. Clifford removes the ingrown portion of the nail (usually 2–3 millimeters along the side). This immediately relieves the pressure and pain. The nail typically grows back in 4–6 months, but some patients experience recurrence if the nail regrows in the same curved shape.
Nail Matrixectomy (Permanent Removal)
For patients with recurrent ingrown toenails, a matrixectomy is the most definitive solution. After removing the ingrown nail border, Dr. Clifford applies a chemical to the nail matrix — the root of the nail — to prevent regrowth of that specific edge. The rest of the nail remains completely normal in appearance.
NailLift™ (Non-Invasive Nail Brace)
For patients who want to avoid needles, surgery, or permanent changes to the nail, NailLift™ is an excellent option. A small, flexible composite brace is connected to the nail. The brace gently lifts and flattens the edges of the nail, training it to grow correctly without digging into the skin.
- No needles — no anesthesia required
- No downtime — resume normal activities immediately
- Painless — immediate relief once the brace is applied
- Typically worn for 2–10 weeks as the nail grows out
- Ideal for mild to moderate ingrown nails, especially in patients prone to recurrence
Comparing Your Options
Partial Avulsion
Matrixectomy
NailLift™
When to See a Specialist
- Home care hasn't improved the pain after a few days
- You see signs of infection — redness spreading, warmth, pus, fever
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system
- You get recurrent ingrown toenails on the same toe
- The pain is severe enough to interfere with walking or wearing shoes
Prevention Tips
- Trim nails straight across — never cut back the corners
- Wear shoes with a wide toe box
- Avoid cutting nails too short
- Keep feet clean and dry
- If you have diabetes, have a podiatrist trim your nails
What to Expect at Pathways Foot & Ankle
- A thorough examination to determine the best treatment for you
- Same-day treatment — no need for a separate appointment
- Clear aftercare instructions and follow-up as needed
- Transparent pricing with no surprise bills
- Same-day or next-day appointments, no referral needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ingrown toenail removal painful?
The numbing injection is the only uncomfortable part, and it lasts a few seconds. After that, the toe is numb and the procedure is painless. Most patients are surprised at how quick and comfortable it is.
How long does recovery take?
For toenail avulsion, most patients resume normal activity the same day, with mild soreness for 1–2 days. Matrixectomy takes a bit longer — the treated area forms a small scab and heals over 2–4 weeks. NailLift has no downtime.
Will the nail grow back?
After toenail avulsion, the nail regrows in about 4–6 months, but may curve the same way and cause recurrence. Matrixectomy permanently removes the ingrown edge, with over 95% success. NailLift corrects the growth pattern without removing nail tissue.
Can I just cut the nail out myself?
We strongly advise against it. Home "bathroom surgery" often pushes the problem deeper, introduces infection, and makes the eventual procedure more difficult. If the nail is painful or infected, see a podiatrist.
What if I have diabetes?
Diabetics should never attempt self-treatment of ingrown toenails. Reduced sensation and circulation make infection and complications much more likely. Professional care is essential.
Take the next step — reach out today
Pathways Foot & Ankle - Dr. Craig Clifford
216 14th St, Oregon City, OR 97045
(971) 359-5299 — Call Dr. Clifford directly
Same-day & next-day appointments available, no referral needed
House calls also available throughout the region.