What Are the Common Causes of Toenail Pain, and How Can It Be Relieved?

Toenail pain can be caused by different things. One common cause is an ingrown toenail. This happens when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain and sometimes infection. Another cause is nail infections, such as fungus, which can change the appearance of the nail and lead to discomfort. Hard trauma like stubbing your toe or wearing shoes that are too tight can also hurt your toenails. Other conditions, including skin issues like psoriasis, might affect your nails and cause pain. For relief, careful nail care is very important. Soaking your foot in warm water can help ease the pain and soften the nail, making it easier to trim. It is best to trim the nail straight across instead of curving the edges to prevent the nail from digging into the skin. Wearing comfortable shoes that give plenty of room for your toes is also helpful. If the pain continues or there is an infection, it might be time to see a doctor. They can offer treatments like antibiotics, improve on nail care, or even surgery in more serious cases.