I have two blackened toenails from running a marathon.

Answered by on Monday, June 1, 2009 at 3:07 PM filed under general postings
"That blackness in the toenails comes from bleeding under the nail, called a subungual hematoma," explains Kirk Lebensfeld, D.P.M., a New York City podiatrist. It generally results from chronic pounding on the pavement or some other repetitive trauma. Ill-fitting, too-tight running shoes or having one toe that is longer than the others (and therefore, subject to more friction) also can cause blackening bruising. To alleviate the pressure under the nail, a podiatrist will drill a tiny hole through it and express the blood. "You might have some residual blackness, and you could temporarily lose the nail, but it should eventually clear up," says Dr. Lebensfeld. In the meantime, wear thicker socks, use running shoes with a roomier toe box, and keep marathon runs to a minimum.

 Unrated

Follow Us

Explore FitClick
Browse this section for quick links to our calorie counter and other popular diet and fitness features. From diet plans to weight loss programs, FitClick has the content you need to lead a healthy life. Find workout routines, a calorie calculator and more at your source for diet and fitness information.
We have updated our Privacy Policy, effective May 25, 2018. We have done this in preparation for the EU's new data privacy law, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Please take the time to review our updated documentation by clicking on the Privacy Policy link at the bottom of this page. By continuing to use this service on or after May 25, 2018, you agree to our updated Privacy Policy.