A black toenail is a condition where the toenail becomes darkened or discolored due to changes under or within the nail. The discoloration may appear black, purple, or dark red, depending on the cause. A black toenail is often related to bleeding beneath the nail, known as a subungual hematoma, but it can also develop from other conditions. Understanding the causes and symptoms can help determine when professional evaluation is needed.

Symptoms of a black toenail may include dark discoloration, swelling, and pressure under the nail. In some cases, the nail may become loose or separate from the nail bed. Pain is common when blood collects under the nail and creates pressure. Some individuals may not experience discomfort, especially when discoloration develops gradually. Changes in nail appearance should be monitored because they may indicate trauma, infection, or another underlying concern.

The causes of a black toenail often involve repetitive trauma or blunt force injuries. Repetitive trauma commonly occurs in runners, hikers, and athletes when the toes repeatedly hit the inside of a shoe during activity. Wearing shoes that are too tight can increase pressure and cause irritation beneath the nail. Blunt force, such as dropping an object on the toe or stubbing the toe, can also damage blood vessels under the nail. Fungal infections may cause darkened or thickened nails and can sometimes contribute to nail discoloration.

Risk factors for developing a black toenail include participating in high-impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and experiencing repeated pressure on the toes. Individuals with circulation concerns or certain medical conditions may also require closer monitoring of nail changes. Properly fitted shoes, wearing protective footwear, and attention to foot care can help reduce the risk of injury. If you have a black toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, also known as a fungal toenail infection, is a common condition that affects the appearance and health of the nails. It develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks, nail damage, or openings around the nail bed. The infection often progresses slowly and may become more noticeable over time. Without proper care, toenail fungus can cause changes in nail texture, color, and strength. Understanding the causes and symptoms of this condition can help individuals seek early treatment and protect their foot health.

Symptoms of toenail fungus often include white or yellow discoloration of the nail. As the infection progresses, the toenail may become thick, brittle, and difficult to trim. Many individuals notice that the nail breaks easily or becomes rough and uneven along the edges. In some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed or develop an unpleasant odor. These changes can cause discomfort, especially when wearing shoes or placing pressure on the toes.

Several causes can contribute to the development of toenail fungus. Fungi thrive in environments that are constantly warm and damp, making sweaty shoes and enclosed footwear common contributors. Poor foot hygiene can increase the likelihood of fungal growth. Toenail damage caused by injury or improper trimming may create an entry point for infection. A weakened immune system can also make it more difficult for the body to fight off fungal organisms.

Risk factors include wearing tight-fitting shoes, frequent exposure to moist areas such as locker rooms, and allowing feet to remain damp for extended periods. Individuals with previous nail injuries or certain health conditions may also have a higher risk of developing toenail fungus. Preventive measures include keeping feet clean and dry, wearing breathable footwear, and maintaining proper nail care habits. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that involves thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve in the forefoot. It most commonly develops between the third and fourth toes and results from repeated irritation or compression of the nerve. This condition is not a true tumor, but rather a response to chronic stress. Causes include wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, repetitive impact activities, and abnormal foot mechanics such as flat feet or high arches. These factors place pressure on the nerve and lead to inflammation.

Symptoms of Morton's neuroma often include a burning sensation in the ball of the foot, tingling in the toes, and a feeling as if a small object is trapped inside the shoe. Pain may worsen with walking or standing for long periods of time. Some individuals experience numbness or sharp discomfort that radiates into the toes. Symptoms may improve when shoes are removed or when the foot is massaged, but they often return with activity.

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation by a foot specialist. A podiatrist will assess symptoms, examine foot structure, and apply pressure to identify the affected area. Imaging tests such as ultrasounds or MRI scans may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Early diagnosis is important to prevent symptoms from worsening.The outlook for Morton’s neuroma depends on the structure of the foot, and whether or not simple treatments are effective. These can include wearing optimal footwear and resting the foot. When surgery is performed, the outlook depends on how much residual nerve damage exists.

Risk factors include wearing narrow shoes, participating in high-impact sporting activities, and having structural foot abnormalities. Women are more commonly affected due to footwear choices that compress the forefoot. Managing pressure and improving foot support are key to reducing symptoms. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When a toenail grows into the surrounding skin and causes ongoing pain, foot surgery can provide lasting relief. This problem usually affects the big toe and can make even short walks uncomfortable. As the ingrown toenail presses deeper into the skin, the area becomes red, tender, and difficult to touch. Drainage or repeated infections may return after temporary improvement. When the condition continues or keeps coming back, a podiatrist can examine the toe, explain the cause, and determine whether surgery is the best treatment. Surgery removes the part of the nail causing the problem, and in some cases, the entire nail is removed. A podiatrist also decides whether to treat the area where the toenail grows to help prevent the ingrown toenail from coming back. 

Before recommending surgery, the podiatrist reviews your health history and examines the toe carefully. This helps in choosing the treatment that offers the best chance for healing, while also reducing the risk of future problems. Ingrown toenail surgery is usually performed with a local anesthetic, which numbs the toe while the patient remains awake. The procedure generally takes only a few minutes, and most patients return home the same day. Depending on the condition of the toe, the podiatrist removes part of the nail or the entire nail. Medication can be used to prevent the troublesome section of the nail from growing back. 

Recovery includes protecting the treated toe and following the podiatrist's instructions carefully. Mild discomfort, swelling, and tenderness are expected while the area heals. Like any procedure, surgery includes possible risks. These include bleeding, infection, and scarring. In some cases, the ingrown toenail returns and another procedure becomes necessary. Most patients experience significant relief once healing is complete and can return to normal daily activities after their podiatrist says it is safe. If you have an extremely painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to see if surgery is the right choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our doctors of New England Foot & Ankle . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wakefield, MA, Nashua and Derry, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.