Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Prevention, and Fast Relief in Springfield, MO

As February turns to March in Springfield, many of us are still living in winter boots and closed shoes after months of cold Ozarks weather. That constant pressure and moisture buildup can quickly turn into a painful ingrown toenail — one of the most common reasons folks seek a podiatrist this time of year. At The Foot Doctors, we’ve helped thousands of 417-area residents find fast, lasting relief from ingrown toenails for over 25 years.

If you’re dealing with tenderness, redness, or swelling along the side of your big toe (or any toe), this blog is for you. We’ll cover exactly why ingrown toenails happen in winter, how to prevent them, home-care mistakes to avoid, and the professional treatments we offer right here in Springfield.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of straight out. Common triggers include:

• Improper nail trimming — Rounding the corners or cutting too short (especially on the big toe)

• Tight or narrow footwear — Winter boots, dress shoes, or steel-toe work boots that squeeze the toes

• Trauma or injury — Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy during winter chores

• Sweaty feet in closed shoes — Moisture softens the skin and makes it easier for the nail to pierce

• Nail shape or thickness — Some people are genetically prone to curved or thick nails

If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or arthritis, an ingrown toenail can quickly become more serious, so early attention is important.

Symptoms to Watch For

Early signs:

• Pain or tenderness along one or both sides of the nail

• Redness and slight swelling

• Feeling of pressure when wearing shoes

If it progresses:

• Increased swelling and warmth

• Pus or drainage (sign of infection)

• Difficulty walking normally

Don’t wait until it’s infected — the sooner you address it, the easier the fix.

Prevention Tips That Actually Work

1. Trim correctly — Cut toenails straight across, never rounded at the corners. Leave them even with the tip of the toe.

2. Choose the right shoes — Make sure there’s at least a thumb’s width of space at the end of your shoe. Rotate boots with roomier sneakers when possible.

3. Keep feet dry — Change socks if they get damp. Use foot powder in boots during long workdays.

4. Moisturize the skin around the nail — Dry, cracked skin pulls on the nail and makes ingrowns more likely.

5. Don’t pick or dig — This almost always makes it worse.

Professional Treatment Options at The Foot Doctors

Most ingrown toenails can be resolved the same day with minimal discomfort:

• Partial Nail Avulsion (most common) — We numb the toe and gently remove only the ingrown portion of the nail. Quick, in-office procedure with immediate relief.

• Nail Matrixectomy (for recurring cases) — A tiny bit of the nail root is treated so the ingrown edge doesn’t grow back.

• Conservative care for mild cases — Special taping, soaking instructions, and antibiotic ointment when needed.

We also address the underlying cause (poor footwear, biomechanics, etc.) so the problem doesn’t keep returning. Most of the time you'll be back in normal shoes within a few days.

When to Come See Us

Come in right away if:

• You have diabetes or poor circulation

• There’s pus, increasing redness, or fever

• Pain keeps you from your normal activities

• You’ve tried home remedies for more than 3–4 days with no improvement

Don’t Let an Ingrown Toenail Ruin Your Spring Plans

Whether you’re getting ready for warmer-weather walks at Nathanael Greene Park or just want to stop limping around the house, we’re here to help. Most insurance plans are accepted, including Medicare, and new patients are always welcome.

Call (417) 883-1881 today to schedule your appointment at 929 E Montclair St, Suite 100, Springfield, MO. Ankle to Toe, Repair, Recovery & Relief.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thefootdoctors417 for more quick foot tips all year long.