The cuticle is the edge of where the skin is usually attached. However, there is a little area between the covered portion of the nail and the skin which covers it - and this area may provide a shelter space space for bacteria to grow. We all have bacteria on our hands, even after we wash, and bacteria or fungus may hide and grow in small crevices next to the fingernail. Occasional paronychial infections are probably impossible to prevent. It is not clear whether or not manicures either prevent or cause nail bed infections.
Most instances develop for no clear reason.
The early signs of a nail bed infection is soreness and tenderness in the area next to the nail. If you suspect a nail bed infection, you should have an evaluation by a physician, especially if you have diabetes or any medical condition which affects the immune system. Not all painful nail problems are paronychia - persistent problems should be checked out with a professional. A therapist may help identify a painful finger problem as a paronychia, and put you in contact with a physician. Diagnose a paronychial infection and make sure that you don't have a different medical condition.