Running Advice for Preventing Black Toenails

Part of the allure of outdoor running is being able to appreciate firsthand the natural beauty this world has to offer. We can think of few places better to do so than Arbor Hills Nature Preserve. Bordering Plano, TX to the west, this 200-acre park has both paved and natural trails that appeal to runners of all levels. Before you head to Arbor Hills, we have some running advice to help you enjoy your run without coming home to find out you have developed a black toenail.

If you are a running beginner, you may be unfamiliar with the condition, but a black toenail is often, but not always, a bruised nail. When a blood blister forms under your nail, it cannot breathe and will take longer to heal than a blister otherwise would.

While you are reconnecting with nature at the preserve, you don’t have to worry about suffering from a bruised toenail if you:

Have properly trimmed toenails. Keep them straight across and even with the edge of your toe for optimal protection.
Wear shoes that fit well. This bit of running advice will help with more than just warding off black toenails – poor-fitting shoes are the culprits behind many foot and ankle issues. Be sure that you have room on the sides and in front of your toes!
Lace the fronts of your shoes tightly enough along the front. This is especially beneficial if you will be doing a lot of downhill running because it helps prevent your feet from sliding forward in your shoes and allowing your toes to rub against the fronts.
Wear moisture-wicking socks. Cotton socks will only trap the moisture when you run, which can then lead to fungal infections. This is obviously not a bruise, but it still has the potential to turn your toenails black.

Dallas Podiatry Works is your source for everything feet—from accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to running advice so you can prevent injuries in the first place. If you need help determining the best course of action when you sustain a bruised nail, give us a call. You can reach our Dallas office at 972.853.7100, our Plano office at (972) 943-3323, or use our online form to request an appointment today. Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, and Twitter for current news, expert advice, and helpful tips!

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.