I've seen very little on the common black toe nail. It seems that any runner who goes beyond the 10 mile mark will eventually have them. I am training for my first marathon and just got my 2nd black toe (about 2 weeks ago). My 1st was about 6 weeks ago. Both toe nails remain on my foot. I have no pain whatsoever.
My shoes are good and appear to be large enough. My socks are cushioned, specifically for running. While I would like to avoid black toe nails, I know that it is as common as muscle fatigue.
I'm more interested in what to do with the toe nail once it becomes blackened. I read on webpage that you should use antifungul cream on it and bandage it. Does this make sense? Is it preventive or is it treatment for the toe's trauma? Do you suggest this method, or should I just leave my toes alone and wait and see if it falls off. If it does fall off, do I do anything?
Thank you for your response...
1. This is caused by your toe nail catching on the seam of your running
shoe, and pulling off a little at a time. The key to avoid it is to keep
your toenails as trimmed as you can, and to make sure that you buy your
shoes with a good size if not oversized toe box.
2. if you get it, treat it like "turf toe" - ice and rest.
3. Once it falls off, the nail that grows in is soft, and it just takes time
to harden so it protects your toenail bed - so caution is the best medicine.
Black toes hurt like hell, so best to avoid it!
