Black Toenails

Discolored, black, toenails are often the result of trauma or an injury to the toenail plate. Dropping a book, object, cell phone, etc on a toe can cause a black toenail. The black color is from blood accumulation or a blood clot under the toenail. Pain can range from mild to severe in more advanced situations. Severe pain can be from a fracture or a cut in the skin under the toenail (nail bed). If this occurs, it is important that the fracture is treated and that the nail bed is repaired. Less often, a black line in the toenail can be a malignant melanoma. Melanoma's can be treated well if caught early. Thus it is important to seek a board certified foot and ankle specialist for treatment. Other causes of discolored toenails are poor nutrition, nail fungus, and recurrence ingrown toenails. Dr. Eric Silvers and Dr. Kory Williams of Advanced Foot and Ankle in McKinney and Prosper, Texas are trained to treat toenail conditions as well as other foot and ankle disorders. Their office website is www.mckinneyfootcenter.com and their office # is 972-542-2155.