My Ingrown Toenail Is Getting Worse: What Should I Do?

Have you noticed a sharp, throbbing pain in your toe that seems to get worse with every step? An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. If you’re dealing with worsening discomfort, you don't have to suffer through the pain alone.

At Babak Kosari, DPM, Babak Kosari, DPM, FACFAS, provides expert care for patients experiencing severe foot pain. With offices in Northridge, California, and Santa Clarita, California, we help you find fast, effective relief so you can get back on your feet.

Why your ingrown toenail is getting worse

An ingrown toenail usually starts as a mild irritation, but it can quickly escalate. When the nail plate continues to press into the skin, it creates an open pathway for bacteria to enter, leading to localized inflammation and an increased risk of infection. 

Ingrown toenails account for approximately 20% of all foot problems evaluated in primary care clinics. If you wear tight footwear or trim your nails incorrectly, you may find that the condition worsens rapidly over time.

When to seek professional podiatric care 

You should seek professional help for your ingrown nail if you notice signs of infection, such as pus, spreading redness, or warmth around the toe. If the pain prevents you from wearing shoes or performing daily tasks, it’s time to see a specialist. 

For some individuals, waiting to seek care can be highly dangerous. Patients with diabetes who develop an ingrown toenail require specialized diabetic foot care to reduce the severe risk of ulceration and amputation. Prompt wound care is essential to protect your overall health.

Common myths about treating ingrown toenails

There are several misconceptions about how to handle a painful nail at home. One common myth is that you should cut your toenails on a curve to match the shape of your toe. 

In reality, toenails should always be cut straight across, so the corners remain visible and do not bury into the skin. Attempting to perform bathroom surgery by digging out the nail yourself often makes the inflammation, pain, and potential for infection much worse.

Find lasting relief from your ingrown toenail

You don't have to live with the constant throbbing and worry of an infected toe. We provide safe, gentle, and effective treatments to resolve your ingrown nail for good. Dr. Kosari can perform a quick, in-office procedure to remove the offending nail border, relieving your pain almost instantly. 

Ready to take the first step toward pain-free walking? Call 818-831-1000 to reach your nearest Babak Kosari, DPM, office in Northridge or Santa Clarita, California, today. You can also use our online booking feature to make an appointment anytime.