What is happening here?

[Fruity101]

I thought maybe ingrown nail but the pain and visible affected area seems to be the skin and flesh around the nail instead?

I can’t see a picture? But an ingrown nail will affect the flesh around it, it’s not the nail that hurts, it’s the flesh it’s digging in to.it can become inflamed and sore.

My daughter had this, it’s a paronychia- see your gp asap for antibiotics.
We also paid for a private foot clinic, they were brilliant- she had the nail braced and has had no problem since.

Warm salt water helps, but see a doctor if it worsens or pus appears.