Jogger's Toe - Causes, Treatment and Prevention
For sportsmen, including runners, squash players and skiers, jogger's toe is an extremely painful reason to visit their local foot clinic like Morrison Podiatry Centre. But what causes this condition, how can your podiatrist help and what preventative measures can you take to avoid the problem? Read on to find out more.
What causes jogger's toe?
Jogger's toe is a painful condition caused by the accumulation of blood underneath the big toenail. The condition is effectively a large blood blister, and it's the pressure beneath the toenail that causes such excruciating pain. Although the injury is not initially serious, it can create a perfect environment in which bacteria may proliferate, resulting in infection.
The problem occurs due to continual downward pressure on your toenail from your training shoes, or following irritation between the shoe and your toenail. This can result from the following:
- shoes that are too tight placing pressure on the toenail
- shoes that are too loose allowing too much movement of the foot inside the shoe, resulting in rubbing
- toenails that are too long
- accidental trauma to the top of your foot
- wearing socks that are too loose, rubbing on the toenail
- wearing socks that are too tight, applying pressure to the toenail
The injury usually results in a blackened toenail, and in serious cases, the toenail may tear or fall off altogether.
How can your podiatrist help?
Your podiatrist will recommend immediate rest and a cessation of all sporting activities. Sometimes, in mild cases, jogger's toe will rectify itself within a couple of days.
The toenail will be clipped so that is no longer in contact with the shoe, and it will also be recommended that you temporarily wear wider shoes to allow more room for your toes. The podiatrist will tape the toenail, especially if it is partially torn, to protect the nail bed from infection until new nail begins to form.
If the condition is particularly painful, the podiatrist may decide that direct intervention is required, and they will drain the blood out through the toenail to relieve the pressure. This procedure is carried out using a specialised instrument and without anaesthetic. It's initially pretty painful, but relief is instantaneous.
Preventative measures
Always make sure that your sports shoes fit properly and are at least a half size larger than your everyday footwear. Ensure that your sports socks fit you properly and are not too tight or too loose. Avoid wearing two pairs of socks, as this can encourage rubbing and irritation.
Keep your toenails trimmed regularly. Trim them straight across, but don't keep them so short that the nail bed becomes irritated.
If you are going to be running downhill, lace your shoes up more tightly. This will help to prevent excessive movement inside the shoe and will limit friction.
In conclusion
Jogger's toe is a painful sports injury that can be avoided by taking the preventative measures outlined above. Always cease training immediately, and consult your podiatrist if you sustain any form of sporting foot injury.