What should I do if my big toenail hurts when pressed?

Pain upon pressing the big toenail can be managed with oral medications, topical treatments, or surgical intervention. There are several potential causes for this symptom, including paronychia, ingrown toenails, and trauma. So, what should you do if pressing your big toenail causes pain? Below, we address this question.

What to Do If Pressing Your Big Toenail Causes Pain

1. Paronychia

Paronychia is commonly caused by infection with Staphylococcus aureus or, less frequently, by fungal infection. It leads to redness and swelling around the nail fold, and pressing the big toenail elicits pain. Topical treatment options include mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream. In severe cases, partial or complete nail avulsion may be required.

2. Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenail is a common condition typically resulting from the lateral edge of the nail plate growing into adjacent soft tissue, acting like a foreign body and causing pain within the nail fold. Pressure exacerbates the pain. Initial management includes local alcohol compresses followed by application of ichthammol ointment. If pus formation occurs, systemic antibiotics such as azithromycin capsules or cefixime capsules may be prescribed. For severe cases, partial or total nail plate excision—or even complete nail avulsion—may be necessary.

3. Trauma

Trauma may result from intense physical activity, prolonged local pressure, or direct injury. It typically manifests as localized skin redness, swelling, and tenderness. Oral diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets may be used for pain relief. Additionally, during treatment, wearing loose-fitting, breathable footwear and socks is recommended to facilitate recovery.

We hope the above information is helpful to you.