Ingrown toenail care is a non-surgical podological approach for nails whose edges grow into the surrounding skin, causing pressure and tenderness. It most often affects the big toe. Common contributing factors include cutting the corners too short or rounded, narrow-toed shoes, naturally over-curved nails and repeated knocks to the toe. The aim of podological care is to relieve pressure, encourage the nail to grow in a healthier direction and reduce the tendency for the problem to return.
If there are signs of infection, heavy discharge or overgrown tissue along the nail edge, a doctor needs to see it first. In that case we refer you to a dermatologist or general surgeon, and plan podological care once your doctor has given the go-ahead.
Who is ingrown toenail care for?
- People who feel the nail edge digging in, or notice tenderness or mild redness
- Anyone whose nails are naturally very curved or grow in a pincer shape
- People who get ingrown nails again and again
- Those who would like to explore a non-surgical option together with their doctor
- Anyone whose nail edges are under pressure from sport, long walks or work shoes
How nail bracing (onychocorrection) works
Nail bracing, also known as orthonyxia or onychocorrection, is a podological correction method in which a thin wire or brace, shaped specifically for your nail, is fitted to the nail plate. It is set to lift the nail edges gently, with the aim of redirecting the nail’s curve over time as it grows. The brace is checked and adjusted at regular intervals. Depending on how quickly your nail grows, the process can take several months or longer, and results vary from person to person.
- Assessment: We look at the curve of the nail, how far it is pressing in, the surrounding skin and any signs of infection, and decide whether bracing is suitable for you.
- Hygiene and sterile preparation: The area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and sterile instruments and single-use materials are used.
- Nail edge care: The part of the nail edge pressing into the skin is carefully trimmed and the nail groove is cleaned. If needed, a small sterile pack is placed between the nail edge and the skin to ease pressure.
- Fitting the brace: If bracing is suitable, a wire or brace shaped to your nail is fitted. This is done with your comfort in mind, without cutting away or pulling the nail.
- Home care and follow-up: We explain how to protect the brace and set dates for checks and adjustments as the nail grows.
Aftercare tips
- Cut your toenails straight across and avoid rounding or digging into the corners.
- Choose shoes with a roomy toe box that do not squeeze the tips of your toes.
- If you have a brace, take care not to catch it when putting on or taking off socks.
- Do not remove or reposition the pack or brace yourself.
- Keep your feet clean and dry, and keep up with your follow-up appointments.
- If the digging-in feeling returns, contact your podologist rather than waiting for your next check.
When should you see a doctor?
Some stages of an ingrown toenail fall outside the scope of podological care. A doctor should assess the toe if you notice:
- Pus, marked swelling or warmth around the nail
- Red, raised tissue along the nail edge that bleeds easily
- Redness spreading along the toe or towards the foot
- A fever or pain that keeps getting worse
- Any wound along the nail edge if you have diabetes or circulation problems
When these signs are present, we do not fit a brace or pack the nail; your doctor’s assessment comes first. If your doctor considers it appropriate, podological follow-up can continue alongside their care.
