Why That Painful Toe Could Be an Ingrown Toenail (Kuku Cengkam / Cagu)

“Sharp and annoying pain at the side of the big toe”

“Swelling, redness or a little pus”

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people in Kuala Lumpur and across Malaysia experience this problem, and most don’t realise it’s actually a medical condition called an ingrown toenail, or in Malay, kuku cengkam / kuku tumbuh ke dalam.

The truth is, that constant toe pain isn’t just a minor irritation. Left untreated, it can worsen into infection, recurring pain, and long-term nail problems-especially in Malaysia’s hot and humid climate, where infections spread faster.

How to Recognise an Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and swelling. Some common signs include:

• Pain and swelling around the nail — especially when wearing shoes.

• Cutting the sides yourself repeatedly, trying to relieve pressure.

• Digging it out with tweezers — but it always comes back.

• Limping in tight shoes or avoiding walking normally.

• Hoping it goes away on its own — the worst approach, because it usually worsens.

If you’re searching for “why does my toenail hurt” or “rawatan kuku cengkam”, these are the exact signs you need to look out for.

What’s Really Happening in an Ingrown Toenail

Think of your nail edge as a blade. When it pierces the skin:

• It causes inflammation and swelling.

• It creates the perfect environment for infection.

• It can lead to redness, pus, and recurring pain every few weeks.

• Sometimes, the skin grows over the nail edge, making it even more painful.

• You might even feel scared to touch it because of the sensitivity.

In Malaysia, especially in Kuala Lumpur’s hot and humid climate, infections can worsen quickly. If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, the pain, swelling, and pus can spread, making simple walking very difficult. For people with conditions like diabetes, this can be even more dangerous.

What NOT to Do if You Have an Ingrown Toenail

Many people make the mistake of trying to “fix it” at home. Unfortunately, this often makes the problem worse. Here’s what you should avoid:

• Don’t cut your nail in a curve (it will likely grow back worse).

• Don’t soak it in water for weeks hoping it will heal.

• Don’t go to a salon for removal (they are not medically trained).

• If you have diabetes, never ignore an ingrown toenail — it can lead to serious complications.

Professional Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Kuala Lumpur

At KL Foot Specialist, we see this condition every day. The good news is, treatment is straightforward, safe, and effective.

Here’s how we help:

• Local anaesthetic to make the process pain-free.

• Minimal trauma techniques for faster healing.

• Permanent solutions available if you want to stop the problem from coming back.

• Most importantly, you’ll walk out pain-free.

Caring Solutions for Your Ingrown Toenail (Kuku Cengkam)

An ingrown toenail (kuku cengkam / kuku tumbuh ke dalam) is a common issue, but leaving it untreated can lead to infection, repeated pain, and even long-term nail problems.

At KL Foot Specialist, our goal is simple:
To help you walk comfortably and live pain-free.

Book your consultation and take the first step toward healthier feet.