“Chronic nail trauma from running, sports, or ill-fitting shoes often results in thick toenails over time,” says Dr. Lipner. The sport itself does not cause the thickening, but rather the friction and repeated impact of the toenails once morest the inside of the shoes is responsible. Stumping your toes or dropping a heavy object on them can also contribute to thickened nails. A shoe seller delivers to us his surprising revelations!
What happens to toenails?
In addition to thickening, the nails are painful – at least immediately following an injury. Repeated trauma, such as running, may not hurt at all. The nails become discolored, usually turning black and blue. A red blister may form under the fingernails. In either case, the nails can lift and separate from the nail bed.
The treatment
Prevention is the best way to protect thick toenails from trauma and injury. And while you can’t prevent accidental injury, you can avoid retrauma by wearing properly fitting shoes. A professional fit is in order, especially if you’re a new runner. Be sure to wear moisture-wicking socks and use foot powder if you sweat. Both can help prevent fungal infections which are an entirely different cause of thick toenails.
It may be tempting to remove a nail that is lifting off the nail bed, but don’t. Keep the nail well trimmed, wear a toe cap for comfort, and let the nail fall naturally. If a red blister forms under the nail, do not burst it. Bursting it might cause more damage or cause an infection. Get it treated by your doctor instead.
Give up these habits that cause foot pain.
