Ingrown Toenails in Children

Ingrown toenails are a common cause of pain in children and teenagers. They can interfere with walking, school shoes and sport, and may become recurrent if not addressed early.

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail presses into, or breaks through, the surrounding skin. This can lead to irritation, inflammation, and sometimes infection.
The condition most commonly affects the big toe.

Why do ingrown toenails happen?

Several factors can contribute:

• nails cut too short or with a deep curve into the corners

• tight, narrow, or poorly fitting footwear

• repeated pressure or trauma (such as stubbing the toe or contact sport)

• picking at the nail or surrounding skin

• naturally curved or involuted nails

• excessive sweating or prolonged moisture (common in adolescents)

Often, more than one factor is involved

Common signs to look for

• redness and swelling along the nail edge

• tenderness when touched or when wearing shoes

• discharge or crusting

• difficulty walking or avoiding activity

Some children develop granulation tissue (“proud flesh” ), which appears as red, swollen tissue that may bleed easily.

What helps in mild cases?

Early or mild ingrown toenails may improve with conservative measures, particularly if addressed promptly. These may include:

• warm salt-water soaks

• avoiding cutting nails too far into the corners

• wearing shoes with a wide, comfortable toe box

• reducing pressure from sport or school shoes

These strategies aim to reduce inflammation and allow the nail edge to grow forward rather than inward.

When professional treatment is needed

Podiatry assessment is recommended when an ingrown toenail causes significant pain, becomes infected or continues to recur.

Treatment options may include:

Conservative podiatry care

Gentle treatment to relieve irritation from the nail edge, alongside advice on nail care, footwear and preventing recurrence.

Surgical treatment (when indicated)

For persistent or recurrent ingrown toenails, a partial nail avulsion (PNA), sometimes combined with phenolisation, may be recommended.

Pointe & Play does not perform nail surgery at our clinic. However, your Podiatrist can assess your child's condition, discuss suitable treatment options and assist with a referral to another podiatry clinic if surgical treatment is indicated.

The most appropriate option depends on symptom severity, recurrence, and your child’s tolerance.

When to seek help urgently

Seek prompt assessment if you notice:

• increasing redness, swelling, or discharge

• signs of infection or fever

• severe or worsening pain

• repeated recurrence of the ingrown nail

• difficulty wearing shoes or participating in daily activities

This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for individual assessment, diagnosis, or medical advice from a qualified health professional.

Sources 
The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne – Kids Health Info: Ingrown toenails
NHS UK – Ingrown toenail
Australian Podiatry Association – Consumer foot health resources
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews – Surgical treatments for ingrown toenails