What Are Bruised Nails?
Bruised nails, or Subungual Haematomas, occur when blood collects beneath the toenail due to trauma or pressure. This condition often leads to discolouration, pain, and swelling under the nail. While minor cases may only be a cosmetic concern, severe bruising can cause throbbing pain and may result in nail detachment if untreated.
Causes of Bruised Nails
-
Direct Impact
- Dropping heavy objects on your toenail
- Stubbing or kicking furniture
- Stepping on the toe during activities or accidents
-
Repetitive Stress
- Wearing tight or poorly fitting footwear for extended periods
- Running, hiking, or playing sports without proper footwear
-
Biomechanical Issues
- Abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation, placing uneven stress on toenails
Symptoms of Bruised Nails
- Discolouration: Black, blue, or purple spots under the nail
- Throbbing pain or tenderness
- Swelling around the toenail
- Lifting or partial detachment of the nail
- Thickened or ridged nail growth over time
How Is It Diagnosed?
A podiatrist will examine the affected toenail for signs of discolouration, swelling, or detachment. In some cases, an X-ray may be recommended to check for fractures or underlying bone injuries.
Bruised Nail Treatment Options
- Non-Surgical Treatments
- Trimming or filing damaged nails to relieve discomfort
- Draining accumulated blood under the nail (Subungual Haematomas) to alleviate pressure
- Cleaning and applying antibiotics to prevent infections in torn or lacerated nails
- Advanced Care
- Custom orthotics or footwear to address biomechanical issues
- Nail removal surgery for severe injuries:
- Partial Nail Avulsion: Removal of part of the nail
- Total Nail Avulsion: Removal of the entire nail to allow for complete healing
- Pain Management
- Use of dressings or topical treatments to reduce pain and minimise the risk of infection
What Happens If Left Untreated?
Ignoring bruised nails can lead to:
- Ongoing pain and discomfort
- Nail infections, such as cellulitis
- Permanent nail deformities or chronic detachment
- Rare but serious conditions like subungual melanoma, which can mimic bruised nails
Prevention Tips
- Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
- Avoid repetitive pressure on toenails during activities like running
- Use protective footwear during heavy lifting or contact sports
- Regularly trim toenails straight across to minimise the risk of injury or ingrown nails
Why Choose Physio & Sole Clinic for Bruised Nail Treatment?
At Physio & Sole Clinic, our highly skilled podiatrists provide expert care to diagnose and treat bruised nails effectively. We utilise advanced techniques to relieve pain, manage nail trauma, and promote healthy nail growth. Beyond treatment, we offer personalised advice on footwear and preventive measures to help you avoid future injuries. Our patient-centred approach ensures a professional, supportive, and safe environment tailored to your individual needs.
To schedule an appointment, book here or WhatsApp us here
Frequently Asked Questions
Most treatments, such as draining blood clots or trimming damaged nails, are quick and relatively pain-free when performed by a trained podiatrist.
Discolouration without injury could indicate a serious condition like subungual melanoma. Immediate consultation with a podiatrist is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
Seek professional advice if you experience severe pain, swelling, nail detachment, or persistent discolouration without an obvious cause.
Healing depends on the severity of the injury. A new nail typically takes 6–12 months to grow back, but pain relief can be immediate after treatment.
Podiatry Charges
| Podiatry Consultation | $80 – $120 |
| Podiatry Assessment | $180 |
| Nail Treatment | $90 – $150 |
All prices are before GST.
Please note that charges may vary depending on the treatment plan prescribed by your Podiatrist. Our charges are transparent and rest assured there are no hidden charges. A podiatry session will last for 30-45 minutes. There are no surcharges if your session exceeds 45 minutes.
For more information on podiatric charges and insurance inquiries, visit us here or get in touch with us here.
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