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Also known as “black toe,” this injury is a blood blister beneath a nail. The condition is uncomfortable, can be prone to infection, and usually results in the eventual loss of the nail.
The most common cause of runner's toe is tight running shoes, although jamming the toe running downhill can also cause the same problem. Your best prevention strategy is to make sure your running shoes fit.
Yeah, i get these a lot for some reason
Gren,
It's important to make sure that you have about a thumb width of space between the end of your big toe and the front of your running shoe. That seems like a lot, but especially if you are running long distances. You may find that your running shoe size is anywhere from 1 to 2 sizes bigger than your dress shoe size.
Good luck.
I have a REALLY sore toe due to a blister on the toe and beneath the nail - now my toe is all red, nail is white creamy color (like it is dead) and extremely sore. IS there something I can do to help this get better? I have already bought new shoes. :)
Peggi,
I'm sorry about your painful toe. Make sure your new running shoes are the right size--you need about a thumb width of space between your big toe and the front of the shoe. Also, are you wearing moisture-wicking socks, such as Wigwam or Thorlo brands? Even if you are, consider trying a thicker style to provide more cushioning and help prevent blisters. If the toe pain persists, I recommend a visit to a podiatrist for a complete assesment of your foot. He or she might have ideas about the cause of the problem, and suggestions to correct it, including orthotics to help compensate for any gait abnormalities that might be contributing to your problem.
Good luck!
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