Common causes
- Toenail fungus
- Repeated pressure or injury from shoes, running, or sports
- A single injury, such as dropping something on the toe
- Psoriasis
- Aging and reduced circulation
Dark or black toenails
A toenail that turns black after running or an injury is often bleeding under the nail and grows out over months. A dark streak or spot under a nail with no injury, or one that's widening or spreading to the skin, should be checked, because rarely it can be a skin cancer.
What the visit includes
An exam of the nails and surrounding skin, an explanation of the likely cause, and a plan. If fungus is suspected, a lab test of a nail sample can confirm it.
If you have diabetes or neuropathy, have thick nails trimmed professionally rather than cutting deep at home.
Which visit to book
Book the Nail & Skin visit ($149).