An ingrown toenail is caused when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain and swelling. The nail can sometimes cause an infection producing drainage.

There are many risk factors that can predispose a person to this common condition. Cutting your nails too short, participating in sports, diabetes, being overweight, or having a fungal infection of the toe, can all cause an ingrown toenail. The condition can be genetic but often the problem can arise from wearing ill-fitting shoes or from shoes that keep the feet slightly damp.

If you do develop an ingrown nail, soak the toe in hot water (with a little Epsom salt) to help prevent infection and lessen the pain.   However, if pain persists, contact your Podiatrist and he may need to drain the area or suggest a more permanent procedure to prevent further problems with the toenail.