Ingrown Toenails vs. Other Toe Conditions: How to Tell the Difference

April 30, 2025 By The Foot Stop
Ingrown toenails are a common and often painful condition, but they aren’t the only issue that can affect your toes. Many people mistake other toe problems for ingrown toenails, leading to delays in proper treatment.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This typically affects the big toe and can worsen if left untreated, sometimes leading to infection.

Common Symptoms of an Ingrown Toenail:

  • Pain and tenderness along the edge of the toenail
  • Redness and swelling around the nail
  • Skin growing over part of the nail
  • Possible infection, with pus or increased warmth in the area

Other Toe Conditions That May Look Similar

Fungal Toenail Infection

A fungal infection can cause thickened, discoloured, or brittle nails, which might be mistaken for an ingrown toenail due to nail deformity.

Key Differences:
  • Yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nail
  • Thickening and crumbling of the nail
  • Usually no pain unless the nail becomes very thick
Paronychia (Nail Infection)

Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the nail, often caused by bacteria entering through a small cut or injury.

Key Differences:
  • Swelling and redness, often around the base of the nail
  • Pus-filled abscess near the nail
  • Pain that worsens if pressure is applied
Corns and Calluses

These are thickened areas of skin caused by repeated friction or pressure, sometimes leading to tenderness that can be mistaken for an ingrown nail.

Key Differences:
  • Hardened or rough skin, often on top or sides of toes
  • No direct nail involvement
  • Typically, not red or infected
Trauma-Related Nail Damage

Injury to the toenail from stubbing, dropping something on it, or repetitive impact (such as from running) can mimic the symptoms of an ingrown toenail.

Key Differences:
  • Bruising or dark discoloration under the nail
  • Possible lifting of the nail from the nail bed
  • Pain subsiding as the nail grows out
Psoriatic Nails

Psoriasis can affect toenails, causing pitting, thickening, and discoloration, which may be confused with an ingrown toenail.

Key Differences:
  • Small dents or pits in the nail
  • Yellow or brown nail discoloration
  • No direct pain at the nail edge

When to See a Podiatrist

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection around your toenail, it’s best to see a podiatrist. At The Foot Stop Podiatry, we can accurately diagnose your condition and provide effective treatment to get you back on your feet comfortably.

Book an Appointment Today

Not sure if it’s an ingrown toenail or something else? Let us help! Schedule a consultation with The Foot Stop Podiatry and take the first step toward healthy, pain-free feet.