A bruised toenail is caused by trauma to the big toe, which can result in discoloration and sometimes pain. In severe cases, the nail may fall off, but it will eventually grow back. Other injuries or conditions can also cause bruising under the nail, which may require medical attention.
The most common cause of a bruised toenail is trauma to the big toe itself. While the toenail cannot actually bruise since it is composed of dead tissue, the underlying skin can darken and bruise when blunt force is applied to the toe above the nail bed. Less serious injuries can also cause a bruised nail. These injuries can include constant rubbing from ill-fitting shoes or repetitive force applied to the toe, such as during a soccer game.
A bruised toenail is generally always caused by some type of injury to the big toe itself. Symptoms usually include discoloration and sometimes pain in the affected area. The pain can be severe and sharp or it can feel like a dull ache. When pain is minor or not present at all, treatment is usually unnecessary other than refraining from engaging in activities that may present a risk of further injury.
In very severe cases where the nail bed is severely bruised, the nail may fall off. It’s not a good idea to remove a toenail, but if it becomes loose and starts to fall off on its own, nothing should be done to prevent it. A new nail will eventually grow in its place, although this typically takes several months. Meanwhile, the area should be kept clean and the nail bed should be protected with bandages or dressings.
Sometimes the bruised nail won’t fall right away. In these cases, the bruise will either heal on its own if given enough time, or a new toenail will grow and slowly replace the damaged area. In this case the same rules will apply to keep the area clean and protected.
Although most of the time, bruising on or under the toenail is related to the force applied to the toe, sometimes other injuries can also cause this. Freezing, for example, can lead to a bruise-like discoloration under the nail. This is a potentially serious condition that can lead to irreversible skin damage. Sometimes a sharp object can find its way under the nail bed and cause an open wound which can also lead to bruising. Any openings should be cleaned thoroughly to prevent infection.
Anyone with a severely blackened toenail, or with the toenail falling off, should contact a doctor right away. He or she can make a proper assessment of the injury and give further treatment instructions. Toenail infections may need to be treated with prescribed antibiotics.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
