Toe nail problems

[BoobzMcGee]

Hi all!

Hope everyone is keeping well!

I have a query regarding toe nails. Since I started running last year I have developed problems with my toe nails. I have always kept them short, but have noticed that about 4 have started to raise away from the nail bed. Also, I've lost my big toe nail and it doesn't appear to be growing back. Is this natural occurrence due to running daily, or should I be seeking medical advice?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Is there plenty of room in the toe box of your running shoes ? At least half a thumb's width is recommended between your toes and the front of the toe box.

Most people use running shoes at least one size larger than their normal footwear to accommodate the spreading and swelling of feet when they run.

Without this extra room your toes are going to be in contact with the front of the shoe, which can cause the issue you are having.

[BoobzMcGee Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Indeed - thanks. I think it's about time I got myself fitted for pair. There appears to be room, but I don't take in to account the amount my feet move, especially the swelling. I'll just look so cumbersome with size 9 feet....more likely to trip over myself

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to BoobzMcGee]

If buying running shoes this guide may help healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Mrsrun Graduate]

I had a similar problem when I started long distance walking. it turns out I was wearing boots too small! Since getting fitted by an expert my feet have had no problems.

[BoobzMcGee Graduate in reply to Mrsrun]

Thanks for the advice - will definitely look into this.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Maybe get it checked out too...a decent podiatrist could be helpful. Correct socks too, can make a massive difference, as well as shoes, as IannodaTruffe says.

[Ian5K Graduate]

I think it’s usual with running or walking injury to see severe bruising under the nails before losing them. I know I went on a particularly long hike one time and ended up with two very black toenails (fortunately I didn’t lose them but they remained black under the nails before they grew out over several months).Are there signs of bruising? Any other signs which might suggest infection: discolouration or smell? I would go to a chiropodist to be sure, and they’ll advise you what to do with the missing nail which isn’t growing back.

[BoobzMcGee Graduate in reply to Ian5K]

No smell thankfully, just very badly bruised nails and the occasional loss. Not ideal for summer and I certainly don't wish to resort to wearing socks with my sandals

[nowster Graduate in reply to BoobzMcGee]

Black toenails are where a blood blister has formed under the nail and been trapped, and the blood has congealed. The nail will lift in the affected part and eventually grow out normally. File it back to its normal length and otherwise just leave it alone. In a few months it'll all be back to normal.

I have two nails on my left foot which are in the middle of this process. One's about half way through growing back normally and the other is only a quarter of the way.

[BoobzMcGee Graduate in reply to nowster]

Thanks! They just take so long to grow back, 7 months and counting. The raised ones can be quite painful when pressure is applied. Worried when I return to the office, I won't be able to wear anything but Birkenstocks

[mancrunner1 Graduate]

I was told not too long ago it’s faster to grow a baby than a nail! So 7 months doesn’t seem worrying to me but do get it checked if you’re concerned.

[BoobzMcGee Graduate in reply to mancrunner1]

Lol! Sounds about right