Ingrown toenails are really common in older children and teenagers. Fast growing feet, sport, school shoes and picking at nails all play a part. Here's how to help.
Why young people get them
- Shoes that have suddenly become too small as feet grow
- Sweaty feet from trainers and sport
- Picking or tearing nails rather than cutting them
- Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners
- Knocks and stubbed toes during football and PE
Helping at home
Warm salty foot soaks, clean socks every day and roomy shoes can ease mild soreness. Check shoe size regularly, as feet can grow a size in a few months. Show your child how to cut their nails straight across with clippers.
When to bring them in
If the toe is still sore after a few days, keeps coming back, or is stopping them doing sport, it's worth getting it looked at. We'll gently treat the nail and explain how to look after it. Children are welcome with a parent or guardian. Read more on our ingrown toenail page.
See your GP or call NHS 111 if the toe is very red, swollen, has pus or your child has a temperature.
Saturday appointments
We're open on Saturdays from 10am to 4:45pm, so you don't need to take them out of school. Book online or call 07470 057011.
Choosing school shoes and trainers
When buying school shoes or trainers, get your child's feet measured and check there's about a thumb's width of space beyond the longest toe. Shoes should fasten securely so the foot doesn't slide forward and squash the toes. Football boots are often worn tight, so check those too. Handing down shoes between siblings can be tempting, but shoes mould to the first wearer's feet, so they rarely fit the next child as well.
Quick answers
Is treatment painful for children?
We're gentle and go at their pace. We'll always explain what we're doing first.
What age do you see children from?
Call us and we'll talk it through. Children are welcome with a parent or guardian.
Will it keep coming back?
Good nail cutting and roomy shoes make a big difference. If it keeps recurring, we'll talk about the next steps.