2752 North Southport Avenue
(at Diversey)
Chicago, IL 60614
773-327-0006
Serving Lincoln Park, Lakeview and Greater Chicagoland Communities
Black Toenails
Dr. Debra Young and staff strive to improve the overall health of our patients by focusing on preventing, diagnosing and treating conditions associated with your feet. Please use our podiatric library to learn more about foot problems and treatments available. We have articles on prevention and treatment. There are also conditions that are in the big toe that are not bunions. You need to know about these also so you can be well informed. Hallux Rigidus and hallus limitus describe stiffness in the great toe joints; but without a big angle. We call them "no sympathy" bunions because one's friends remark "how can it hurt if it looks so normal". If that sounds familiar, read about those conditions under foot problems and foot deformities.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us.
We also have booklets you can request free of charge; select contact us and send us an email to get them.
Black or darkened toenails are essentially bruised nails and can result from a variety injuries or problems. Darkened nails may occur as a result of the toe hitting the end or the top of the shoe toe area. Sometimes, the bruise can lead to a fungal nail infection.
Treatment may include trimming the nail back and applying a topical antifungal medication. If the skin under the nail is ulcerated, a topical antibiotic ointment should be applied.
Diabetic patients should contact our office for evaluation if they experience any change in the color of toenails. The pressure causing the bruised nail may lead to a small sore under the toenail, which can lead to infection.