A bruised toenail, also called a subungual hematoma, develops when blood collects beneath the nail after the nail bed is injured. This commonly happens when a toe is hit, crushed, or repeatedly pressed inside a shoe. Pressure can damage tiny blood vessels beneath the nail, causing blood to become trapped under the nail plate. A bruised toenail may look concerning, but many cases improve as the nail grows out.
Discoloration is one of the most noticeable symptoms. The nail may turn red, dark brown, or nearly black as blood collects underneath it. Throbbing pain can occur soon after an injury, especially when pressure builds beneath the nail. The toe may also feel tender when touched or when wearing shoes. In some cases, the nail loosens as the injury heals. Severe pain, increasing swelling, or drainage may signal a more serious injury or infection.
Direct injury is a common cause of a bruised toenail. Dropping something on the toe, stubbing it, or having the toe caught in an accident can cause bleeding beneath the nail. Repeated pressure can also create a bruise, especially when shoes are too tight or toes repeatedly strike the front of footwear during running. Activities that place repeated stress on the feet can increase risk.
A podiatrist will examine the toe and nail to determine whether the discoloration is from an injury or another condition. X-rays may be recommended when a fracture is suspected. If blood has created significant pressure and pain, the podiatrist may drain the trapped blood to relieve discomfort. The toe may then be properly protected while the nail grows out. More serious injuries may require additional treatment and follow-up care. If you have a bruised toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot Doctors of Utica. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Herkimer, and New Hartford, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
