Is Soccer Causing Your Child’s Ingrown Toenails?
At Pasco Hernando Foot and Ankle, Dr. Lawrence Kales and our podiatry team understand how important it is for kids, teens, and adults to stay active, especially here in Florida where soccer is played year-round. One of the most common foot problems we see in our patients and our young athletes is the ingrown toenail. While it may seem like a small issue, it can quickly become painful if not treated early.
An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to redness, swelling, tenderness, and even infection. For soccer players, this condition is especially common due to the constant pressure placed on the toes during games and practices. Tight or narrow cleats, quick stops, and repeated impact with the ball all contribute to the problem.
Why Soccer Players (and Kids) Get Ingrown Toenails
Children and teens are particularly at risk because their feet are still growing. Cleats that fit one month may feel tight the next. Combined with active play, this creates the perfect environment for toenail issues.
Common ingrown nail causes include:
Wearing cleats that are too tight or too small
Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges
Sweaty feet, which soften the skin and nails
Natural nail shape that curves into the skin
In recent years, we’ve seen more sports-related ingrown toenails as youth leagues and travel teams have become more popular across Pasco and Hernando counties.
Safe and Effective Treatment Options
At our office, we focus ongentle, family-friendly care that helps patients of all ages feel comfortable and confident.
Early care at home may include:
Soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling
Keeping the area clean and dry
Switching to properly fitting cleats with more toe space
If symptoms continue or worsen, Pasco Hernando Foot and Ankle offers simple in-office treatments:
Partial nail removal: Carefully removing the small portion of nail causing discomfort
Permanent correction (if needed): A safe solution to prevent that part of the nail from growing back
Treatment for infection: If redness or drainage is present
These procedures are quick, performed with local numbing, and designed to get you or your child back to normal activities as soon as possible.
Prevention Tips for Ingrown Nails
Keeping feet healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple habits can make a big difference:
Trim toenails straight across (not too short)
Check shoe and cleat fit regularly, especially for growing kids
Keep feet clean and dry after sports
Don’t ignore early signs of pain or redness
Pasco Hernando Foot and Ankle Is Here to Help
At Pasco Hernando Foot and Ankle, Dr. Lawrence Kales is committed to providing compassionate, family-centered podiatry care. Whether your child is dealing with their first ingrown toenail or you’re experiencing recurring discomfort, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Don’t let toe pain keep you or your young athlete off the field. Contact Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, call us today at (727) 868-2128 or (352) 683-5799 at our Hudson/Bayonet location office. You can also request an appointment online. Get back to playing, running, and living comfortably.
Schedule Your Consultation
Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle
Hudson, FL
Call (727) 868-2128 or (352) 683-5799
Request an Appointment