As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many people bundle up to stay warm. But while you’re pulling on thicker socks and closed-in shoes, your feet may be quietly suffering. One of the most common complaints podiatrists hear during the colder months? Ingrown toenails.
At Prospect Podiatry, we see a noticeable spike in patients dealing with painful, swollen, and infected toenails during winter. But why does this happen? In this post, we’ll explore the reasons behind the seasonal rise in ingrown toenails—and share how you can prevent them before they become a bigger issue.
In winter, most people swap out sandals and breathable sneakers for heavy boots, enclosed shoes, and thick socks. While this helps keep your feet warm, it also reduces space around your toes. Increased pressure on the toenails—especially when shoes are too tight—can push the nail edge into the skin, triggering an ingrown toenail.
Tip: Make sure your winter footwear offers enough room in the toe box and avoid shoes that squeeze or compress your toes together.
When it’s cold, many people skip or rush through their usual foot care routine. That often means nails are trimmed too short or with rounded edges, both of which increase the likelihood of the nail curving into the skin as it grows.
Tip: Always trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. If you’re unsure, our podiatrists can show you the safest technique.
Cold weather can reduce blood flow to the extremities, meaning your feet receive less oxygen and nutrients. This affects the skin’s ability to recover from minor trauma, making it easier for an ingrown nail to become infected.
Thick winter socks can also trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive—especially if your shoes get wet.
Tip: Keep your feet dry, change damp socks immediately, and moisturise to prevent dry, cracking skin around the nail bed.
Slippery sidewalks, icy driveways, and clunky boots increase the chances of bumping, stubbing, or injuring your toes—a common cause of ingrown toenails. Even minor trauma can shift how a nail grows.
Tip: Wear sturdy, well-fitted shoes with protective toe boxes when walking in wintry conditions to reduce the risk of injury.
Phone: (08) 8344 5690
Email: [email protected]
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Address: 115 Prospect Rd, Prospect SA 5082, Australia
