Bruised Toenail (Subungual hematoma)
Why is my toenail bruised?
Damage to a toenail can cause a bruise to form under the nail. This may be due to dropping something on the foot, but also could be the result of improperly fitting shoes. Shoes that do not leave enough room for the toes repeatedly press downward on the nail and causes blood to form under the nail plate. Conversely, if shoes are too big feet will slide forward and constantly hit against the end of the shoe. A horizontal force will press against the end of the nail and lift it up. The nail bed that the nail plate sits on contains many blood vessels and can easily bleed.
How can a Chiropodist help?
A Chiropodist will do an assessment to determine what is causing the bruising, examine the area to rule out other conditions such as melanoma, give advice on properly fitting footwear and may even puncture the nail and blood blister to relieve pressure.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a proper medical evaluation. Treatment options will vary from person to person.
Damage to a toenail can cause a bruise to form under the nail. This may be due to dropping something on the foot, but also could be the result of improperly fitting shoes. Shoes that do not leave enough room for the toes repeatedly press downward on the nail and causes blood to form under the nail plate. Conversely, if shoes are too big feet will slide forward and constantly hit against the end of the shoe. A horizontal force will press against the end of the nail and lift it up. The nail bed that the nail plate sits on contains many blood vessels and can easily bleed.
How can a Chiropodist help?
A Chiropodist will do an assessment to determine what is causing the bruising, examine the area to rule out other conditions such as melanoma, give advice on properly fitting footwear and may even puncture the nail and blood blister to relieve pressure.
The information provided is intended for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for a proper medical evaluation. Treatment options will vary from person to person.
