Helping Kids with Ingrown Toenails Feel Better—Fast

When Every Step Hurts, We’re Here to Help

Ingrown toenails are more common in kids and teens than most parents realize—and they can cause big pain for such a small toe. Whether it’s from tight shoes, sports, or just how their nails grow, children with ingrown toenails often feel uncomfortable walking, running, or even wearing socks. At Third Coast Foot & Ankle, we’re here to help your child feel better quickly and prevent the problem from coming back.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This often causes:

  • Redness and swelling

  • Pain and tenderness to touch

  • Drainage or infection if left untreated

For kids, it’s not just uncomfortable—it can interfere with school, play, and sports. The good news? With early treatment, most kids find relief fast.

Why Do Kids Get Ingrown Toenails?

There are several reasons your child may be prone to this issue, including:

  • Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow

  • Improper toenail trimming (cutting too short or curved)

  • Genetics (some kids simply have naturally curved nails)

  • Repeated trauma from sports or stubbed toes

When to See a Podiatrist

While some minor cases can be managed at home, you should schedule an appointment if:

  • The toe is red, swollen, or draining

  • Pain is making it hard for your child to walk or wear shoes

  • Ingrown nails keep coming back

  • Home remedies haven’t helped in 2–3 days

Our podiatrist, Dr. Meier, has extensive experience treating children and teens. We create a calm, kid-friendly experience and always explain treatment in a way that makes children feel safe and comfortable.

Pediatric Ingrown Toenail Treatment Options

We tailor treatment to your child’s needs and comfort level. Options may include:

  • Gentle nail edge removal to relieve pain and pressure

  • Antibiotics if infection is present

  • Permanent correction for recurring cases, using a safe in-office procedure

Most children are back to normal activities quickly—often the very next day.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails in the Future

After treatment, we’ll talk with you and your child about simple steps to prevent this problem, such as:

  • Trimming toenails straight across (not curved)

  • Wearing proper-fitting shoes with a roomy toe box

  • Avoiding picking at or peeling toenails

  • Monitoring the toe for early signs of redness or swelling

We Make Pediatric Foot Care Easy and Comfortable

Your child’s comfort and health are our top priority. We take extra care to make their experience stress-free—and to give you peace of mind.

If your child is limping, complaining about toe pain, or dealing with repeat ingrown toenails, don’t wait. Early treatment prevents infection and keeps kids active and happy.

Let us help your child feel better. Call 262-821-1588 for an appointment at our kid-friendly New Berlin office.