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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

bruise under toenail

This weekend, I was removing nail polish that had been on my toenails for a few months and I noticed what looked like a bruise along the left side of one of my big toes. It appears to be under the toenail and not on the surface (picture attached). There is no pain and it is not tender to the touch. I don't remember hurting my toe recently, so I'm confused about why it would be bruised. I went online to see what I could find and found a lot of information about subungual melanoma and now I'm freaked out. Because I've had on nailpolish for a few months, I don't know when the "bruise" appeared or if it has grown slowly or quickly or at all. I'm a 41 year old caucasian woman with fair, freckled skin. I have had a few moles removed and tested, but have no history of melanoma.

What are the chances that this is melanoma? Is there anything else it could be? Should I get to a dermatologist ASAP?

Hi,
Before you "freak out" just go to a podiatrist and have a little bit of the nail cut away (it should be a painless experience) so that the discoloration can be examined. In the vast, vast majority of cases it is usually dry blood. (I know there is no history of trauma; it does not matter). In my thirty years of practice I have cut away a few thousand discolored nails and only once was it a melanoma.
But to give yourself peace of mind go have it looked at and do not put it off.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for bruise under toenail

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Dec 28, 2018
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Purplish bruising in spots under all my toenails
by: Beverly

I am 68 years old and also wear nail polish for long periods of time, but, mostly light pink polish. You can still see the bruised looking spots on my toe nails. Now, I wonder what has caused this. I only take Coreg as far as medication and it is the smallest dose.

Apr 24, 2017
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Can melonoma appear in day?
by: Mary

I have a similar but smaller, fainter discoloration, except it is more red than purple. Mine appeared overnight and I don't remember an injury. I had been trying on heels the night before, and my 52-yr-old feet have really never been in heels. Not even when they were much younger. They were open toed, so the nail really didn't make contact with the shoe. Could the bruise be from pressure? I'm pretty healthy and do not have diabetes.
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With most skin and nail lesions, they sort of appear out of nowhere. One day there is nothing, the next day you notice a growth or discoloration.
Most discolorations are nothing, but if you are at all concerned, see a doctor as that is the only way to find out what is going on.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Apr 13, 2017
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Bruises under toe nails from nail polish?
by: Your First Name

I'm 66 years old and about 2 months ago I polished my toe nails for the first time in my life. As the polished area started to grow out, I began to notice the little bruises on each of my big toes. I just removed the polish and, based on what I am reading here, I really wonder if there is a correlation between leaving the nail polish on too long and having this bruising occur. I think that, if I ever polish them again, I won't leave it on longer than a week or two.

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Nail polish does not cause nails to bruise, but may cause superficial nail fungus which will be a white discoloration in the affected nails.
The bruising more then likely occurred subsequent to the application of polish and only became evident as the polish disappeared or was removed.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Mar 28, 2017
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Toenail spot-help
by: Manya

There is this spot under my toenail which is very small and is red-purple-black shade. It did not pain at first but then I hit my toe to a wooden table and now it hurts. It's been 15-16 days since it has appeared. It hasn't changed it colour or size or shape yet but I'm freaking out that what it is. It looks a discoloured spot from far but when I examined with a flash light as I said before it was red-purple-black. Help me that should I freak out or if it's normal?
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In the vast majority of cases this type of discoloration is just blood underneath the nail, however, if the "spot" does not appear to be growing forward, then the smart money would be to have a doctor take a look at it.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Dec 01, 2015
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Toe briuses
by: Anonymous

I have bruising on both toes but after reading this I think it's from walking really fast. I just started exercising and my toe nails were a little long. I would think a melanoma would be on one or the other. Any way a couple of weeks will tell. I was worried about diabetes but has anyone read about that being a possible cause?

You are correct in that the chance of a melanoma occurring on two toes at the same time is very slim.
More than likely it is either fungus or some bleeding underneath the nails from exercise.
The bruising alone would not lead me to think about diabetes, but from a systemic stand point, if you are taking blood thinners or perhaps a lot of aspirin for pain, this could cause excess bleeding underneath the nails.

Marc Mitnick DPM

Oct 23, 2015
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Bruised toe nail zap
by: Anonymous

In my experiences. I had a dresser dropped on my toenail. (Big toe) and there was pooled blood underneath and they had to zap an electrical shock in the needle to release the blood flow. It worked perfectly and the nail regrew fine ! Good luck everyone!

Nov 02, 2014
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I have the same thing.
by: Diane L

I believe this is due to being on prednisone for me. I started with 30mg about 20 days ago for an acute Crohns attack and tapered by 5mg every 5 days and am currently down to 10mg. I keep my toes painted constantly and one of my big toes was extremely sore for no reason. I went and took the polish off to look at it and found I have a big bruise under each toenail of both my big toes. I have an office job and don't do anything there or at home that would have injured both of my big toes. I called my Dr at Carolina Digestive Diseases and first thing he did was ask me if I'd injured them. I said no. He said that easy bruising is common while on prednisone and even just snug pressure from shoes can cause this while on it. He said I could continue taking it so I am, but this bruising is going to take a long time to grow off :(

May 10, 2014
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Don't Freak Out!
by: Courtney

I'm surprised no one else has said this yet but, that painless, bruise-looking thing is usually a result of wearing the dark nail polish for such a long period of time. This used to happen to my sister's friend all the time because she would just keep layering on the dark polish for months and months. I'm not saying you shouldn't get it checked out... just saying that it's pretty common and I've noticed a lot of the comments mention the long term wear of dark nail polish.

Nov 08, 2013
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Brown color under toenail
by: Anonymous

I noticed the discoloration two days ago. Would not "rub off". Began to worry when WEB MD site told me I had a serious issue, and needed to "Rush into doctor immediately". Oh brother. I wear Open Toed shoes 100% of the time..and do not use public showers, etc.. Did not bump into anything. I'm glad to read the comments here, and thank you all. Well, this will cost me for doctor visit, etc... right before Xmas too, bummer.

Dec 31, 2011
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Mine disappeared afther a while
by: Edina

Mine disappeared in about six months. I freaked out first....was crying and sweating after reading all the symptoms of Melanoma. Also,
I did not remember hurting it either. I wore closed toe shoes but I did not remember that it hurt me.
I removed the nail polish and filed top layer of the nail a little bit (not too much but to clear yellowish color around the bruise. I wore open toe shoes (since we live in FL. and can get away with it).
It started to grow off in a couple of weeks but did not disappear for at least six months.
It is really recommended to go to the doctor because in the majority of the cases it is not Melanoma and they can put your mind to ease. If it is Melanoma the sooner they
diagnose it the sooner they can help you.

Jan 04, 2011
Rating

Bruised toe nail
by: Edina

The same thing happened to me. Last night I removed my dark nail polish that I have been using for months now....and there it was. I am freaking out, too. Please let us know what happened when you went to the doctor.

Nov 27, 2010
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diagnosis
by: Anonymous

Just wondering what your diagnosis was....my toe looks EXACTLY like yours and I'm freaking out. I have an appt with a dermatologist in two weeks but I think I'm going to push the appt up!!!

Jun 08, 2010
Rating

same thing
by: Anonymous

It happened when I wore a pair of shoes that were too tight. It goes away after a few weeks.

Jun 08, 2010
Rating

Same thing
by: Jan

It happened to me after wearing a tight pair of shoes I don't often wear. It goes away if you don't wear those shoes again!

Dec 04, 2009
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update
by: Anonymous

Did you ever find out what happened to your toe? I just had the same thing happen.

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MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS(items I prescribe in the office)

Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain best buy in a pre-made orthotic click link below

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Ontario, Canada

I found your website and articles most interesting.

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Judy

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New York

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Memphis, TN

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Scotland

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J. Simmons

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Yours truly,

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Tennessee

Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA

Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

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First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)

First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)

Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama

Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX

Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

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West lafayette, IN

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Tampa, Florida 33624

Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

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Texas

Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

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Edmonton,Canada

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South Africa

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Mansfield Ctr, CT

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Placentia, California

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Unknown

Unknown location

I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location

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Pacific Grove, CA

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All the best,

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Alameda, California

By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

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Anonymous

Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN

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New Zealand

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Sincerely

Josette

Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona

I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida

1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland

Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina

Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

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...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA

Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA

Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown

Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown

I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

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Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous

Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous

Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland

Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown

Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey

Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

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Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

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Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA

Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

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Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown

Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA

Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY

Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS

thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA

Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado

Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown

Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada

I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown

Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin

Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

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Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina

Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown

Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida

Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

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Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey

Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

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I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC

Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA

I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

bruise under toenail

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