Big toe injury - a bruised toe

Big toe injury - a brusied toe

A bruised toe or black toe nail is usually caused by a direct blow to the nail, although in some instances the toe nail can be lifted. Bleeding under the big toe nail is the reason for the appearance of the nail looking black. Sometimes the big toe can be swollen or it can cause intense pain, but if the toe nail feels painful or throbbing you can ease the pressure by making a hole in the nail with a needle, making sure it is sterilized and you can face doing it! The blood will then escape and the pain should ease. If at all worried see your doctor.

Prevention

Wear shoes that are large enough and always wear protective toe cap shoes when necessary.