Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners.

Tight or narrow footwear that presses the nail into the skin.
Repetitive trauma from sports or activities.
Naturally curved or thickened nails and genetic nail shape.

Symptoms to watch for

Localised pain along the nail edge.
Redness, swelling, and warmth around the toe.
Pus or drainage if infection develops.
Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably.

Quick self-care you can try (for mild cases)

Soak the foot 2–3 times daily for 10–15 minutes in warm water to reduce swelling.
Wear open‑toed or roomy shoes and avoid pressure on the toe.
Gently lift the nail edge and place a small piece of clean cotton or dental floss under it only if it’s painless to do so.
Apply an over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointment and cover with a sterile dressing.
Take pain relief as needed following the product

instructions.
Stop self-care and see a clinician if pain worsens, redness or drainage increases, you have diabetes or poor circulation, or home measures don’t help within a few days.

What Gentle Stride Podiatry offers

Fast, sterile assessment and pain relief.
Professional nail trimming and safe removal of offending nail spicule.
Partial nail avulsion with or without chemical matrixectomy for recurrent ingrown nails.

Prescription antibiotics when infection is present.

Advice on footwear, nail care, and follow‑up to prevent recurrence.

Simple prevention tips

Cut nails straight across and avoid rounding the corners.
Keep nails at a moderate length — not too short.
Choose shoes with a wide toe box and replace worn footwear.
Protect toes from repetitive trauma during sports.

Gentle Stride Podiatry treats ingrown toenails quickly and safely to relieve pain and reduce recurrence. Book an appointment for rapid assessment and same‑day treatment options to get you comfortable again.