Ingrown Toenails in Young Athletes: Causes, Care, and Prevention

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a nail, most often on the big toe, grows into or presses against the surrounding skin, leading to redness, tenderness, and sometimes swelling. Young athletes are particularly prone to them because sport combines several contributing factors: close-fitting footwear, repeated pressure on the toes, and the trimming habits common among busy children.

Activities that involve running, stopping, and kicking push the toes repeatedly against the front of a shoe or boot. Combined with footwear that may be slightly too small on a growing foot, this repeated pressure can encourage a nail edge to dig into the skin.

This article is educational and does not replace an individual assessment. For broader context, see our parent's guide to children's sports foot care and our detailed page on ingrown toenails.

Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails in young athletes:

• Improper nail trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the edge to grow into the skin.
• Tight or short footwear: Shoes, cleats, or skates that crowd the toes increase pressure on the nail edges.
• Repeated toe pressure: Running, stopping, and kicking push the toes against the front of footwear.
• Trauma: Stubbing a toe or dropping something on it can affect how the nail grows.
• Natural nail shape: Some children have nails that curve more, which can make ingrown edges more likely.

Understanding these factors helps parents address the general contributors. Persistent or painful ingrown toenails are best assessed by a professional.

A few general habits may reduce the likelihood of ingrown toenails in young athletes:

• Trim nails straight across: Avoid cutting them too short or rounding the corners deeply.
• Check footwear fit: Ensure shoes, cleats, and skates give the toes room and are re-checked as feet grow.
• Use sport-appropriate socks: Well-fitting socks help reduce friction and moisture.
• Keep feet clean and dry: Good hygiene supports healthy skin around the nails.
• Address discomfort early: Attending to a sore toe early can prevent it from becoming more troublesome.

These are general wellness suggestions. They may reduce the chance of ingrown toenails but cannot prevent every case, as factors such as natural nail shape also play a role.

When a child develops a sore toenail, it is understandable to want to fix it at home. However, some common home approaches can make things worse. In general, it is wise to avoid:

• Repeatedly cutting into the corner of the nail or digging beneath it
• Using sharp implements to try to lift or remove the nail edge
• Ignoring a toe that is increasingly red, swollen, or painful

"Bathroom surgery" can introduce irritation and may worsen the concern. If a toenail is persistently sore, inflamed, or not settling, a professional assessment is the more appropriate step. A chiropodist can assess the nail and discuss suitable options.

If your young athlete has an ingrown toenail that is painful, persistently red or swollen, or not settling with attention to footwear and nail care, a professional assessment can be worthwhile. A chiropodist is a regulated foot care professional in Ontario, registered with the College of Chiropodists of Ontario, who can assess the toenail and discuss appropriate options.

Signs that professional care may be helpful include a toe that stays red and tender, discomfort that affects walking or sport, or a nail concern that keeps returning. Our clinic also provides information on ingrown toenail care.

At Foot Forward Clinic, our registered chiropodists provide pediatric foot assessments for families across Maple and the wider Vaughan area. You can contact our clinic or book an assessment online.