What is an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness and sometimes infection. The big toe is the most commonly affected.
The causes are varied: incorrect nail cutting (too short, too rounded), tight-fitting shoes, excessive perspiration, genetic predisposition or trauma. Without treatment, an ingrown toenail can worsen and may require surgical intervention.