Discolored toenails are fairly common, especially in Central Oregon where we have many active patients such as endurance athletes and long distance runners. Sometimes they can be painful or sometimes they are pain free. Most times, black toenails are not a major concern, but there is one cause that can be very serious.

• Trauma or one time injury. When trauma occurs to the nail – when you drop something heavy on your toe or stub your toe badly – it causes a pooling of blood beneath the nail. If this occurs suddenly after trauma, it is key to see a doctor immediately to relieve the pressure, and the pain, under the nail.
• Repetitive pressure from running or athletic injuries. Long distance runners may experience black toenails after long runs. The darkening of the nail is usually due to the toe hitting the end or top of the shoe with every foot strike.
• Fungal infection. Some toenail fungus cases can produce a very dark, almost black discoloration of the toenail.
• Malignant melanoma. This is an extremely rare but serious condition, and should be considered, especially if you haven’t had any trauma to the toe or any history of fungal infection.

Some things you can do to prevent the most common causes of black toenails include:

• Wear proper fitting shoes that offer a wide enough toe box that your toes are not pressed against one another or the end of the shoe.
• Wear protective footwear whenever doing activities with the risk of stubbing your toe or dropping something on your foot.
• Keep feet clean and dry – especially if you are susceptible to fungal infections.
• Seek help early from a podiatrist if you have sudden darkened toenails.

A podiatrist can help you with diagnosis and treatment of those discolored or darkened toenails. Request an appointment if you need help!

-Dr. Frank Cobarrubia, 541-385-7129