Marathoners and other long-distance runners who rack up a lot of miles on their feet may ultimately develop blackened, disfigured toenails. The discoloration is actually dried blood under the nail. Take, for example, a man training for a road race. THe longer he continues to run, the more his feet swell, making the shoe tighter and tighter. With each step, the runner bands his nail against the front of the shoe. From this repeated friction and banging of the foot, the nail actually rubs against its own nail bed. The bleeding, then, comes from the nail matrix, the cells from which the new nail tissue grows. If the matrix is damaged severely, the dark and thickened nail may be permanent.
After any toenail injury, be sure to follow through with a professional diagnosis and treatment plan from your podiatrist. Early intervention can often speed healing and recovery time. And fore-warned is forearmed - we’ll also recommend ways to prevent toenail or other foot problems from recurring. Don't suffer with any foot injury, condition, disease or other problem, give us a call today!
P.S. Your podiatrist may suggest an orthotic to help prevent trauma to toenails. As with any sport, see a professional fitter when you plan to buy your running shoes.
