Toenail Question

Apple Head · ‎01-31-2015

I injured my big toenail about 6 months ago. It turned black and blue and when it started healing, the damaged part started to lift off of the new toenail coming in underneath.

It's caused me a lot of issues because none of my narrower shoes fit because of that toenail raised about 1/2 inch from where the toenail should be.

It's now growing out but still attached on one side. I can lift it up (I know it sounds gross) and the new toenail is underneath, but it's still pretty attached on one side. I don't want to tear it off and reinjure anything, but it's driving me nuts as I still can't wear my walking shoes or good shoes that I own (only sandals). I had to go out and buy all new walking shoes and a pair of semi-dress shoes in wide widths. I normally wear B width or narrow! I have a job interview next week and only have my wide Clarks (lower heel) to wear. It's a nice shiney croco leather look, but it still is aggravating.

Anyone ever have this issue with a damaged toenail growing out? I would love to know how long it takes and your experiences. I don't want to go to a podiatrist because my insurance right now (being unemployed) is very expensive. I think it's almost ready to come off, but it's driving me nuts!

I soak it every morning in epsom salt to keep it softened and soothed, but I'm dying to wear all my shoes again.

Apple Head · ‎01-31-2015

I must be the only one who has ever had this issue. 78 views. Oh well. Hope it never happens to the rest of you.

kivah · ‎03-11-2010

I recommend u go to a podiatrist who will treat it.

Yahooey · ‎07-09-2010

i'm sorry this happened to you. I've only had bruised big toe nails - causes it to turn white and eventually it will grow out. Even that takes a year or so. But I could still wear my shoes.

hsawaknow · ‎03-15-2011

If your new toenail is almost grown out have you given any thought to having a pedicure? The tech can get in there and pull out the ingrown toenail. (I had a similar problem myself). Hope this helps

Sleep sweet Bo 3/19/08 8/4/18

Apple Head · ‎01-31-2015

I know it's a matter of time, but it sure takes a long while. It would cost me a $200 office visit to see the podiatrist, so can't do that.

I'll keep waiting and hope it falls off in the shower soon.

Thanks everyone.

kiamom23 · ‎01-22-2011

My hubby had this and went to podiatrist. He removed the toenail (the new hadn't really started to grow yet.) Told him it would not hurt--wrong! It throbbed bad, according to him) for a good number of days. He had to be very careful wearing a shoe. Wore a pair that had ample toe room. It took a few months for the new one to grow back and gave him some solution to paint on every day to help prevent fungus. It looks pretty normal now. I wonder if you could cut the part that is unattached? Don't know if that would help. Good luck!

turtle52 · ‎03-15-2010

On 3/27/2015 Apple Head said:
I must be the only one who has ever had this issue. 78 views. Oh well. Hope it never happens to the rest of you.

I JUST started a thread about this about 1-2 weeks ago when my injured toe nail fell off...

hckynut · ‎03-10-2010

"Apple Head", Have you been to a Podiatrist? If not, that would be my suggestion. I would think that doctor would be able to do something to help you with this problem. I know what I have done many times with my big toe(black toe)injuries, but I ain't gonna suggest you do the same. It is down right gross.

hckynut(john)

Stray · ‎04-20-2013

I had this happen multiple times, if you can't afford the podiatrist, I would try a good pedicure as long as you know the tech. But, many won't touch it....so what you are doing is correct...try snipping it very gingerly with a small sterile scissor...that's what I did ....but if it is not ready, just wait, soak and it will fall off