Ingrown toenails occur when the side of the toenail digs into the flesh of the toe causing pain and often infection.  Ingrown toenails are commonly caused by incorrect cutting of the toenails, trauma, and improper fitting shoes, and medical conditions that cause swelling of the feet (such as pregnancy).

Tenderness is present to the ingrown edge of the toenail, and is often associated with redness, swelling, and pus.

Treatment requires removal of the ingrown toenail.  The toe is numbed with anesthesia and the ingrown edge of the toenail is removed.  If infection is severe, oral antibiotics are prescribed.  Following the procedure, the toe requires soaking in Epson salt and water, twice a day for one to two weeks.  The toe should be dressed with an over the counter antibiotic cream (such as Bactroban or Neosporin) and a band-aid for one week.  There is always a chance that the toenail may grow back ingrown. 

If the toenail grows back ingrown, a permanent surgical procedure is recommended.  The root of the nail is partially removed to prevent re-growth of the  nail edge.