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Trauma Nails
The Ultimate Guide
Trauma nails refer to toenails or fingernails that have been damaged due to an injury or repeated pressure.
What are Trauma Nails?
Trauma nails refer to toenails or fingernails that have been damaged due to an injury or repeated pressure. This type of nail trauma can result from various causes, such as stubbing a toe, dropping a heavy object on the nail, or wearing ill-fitting shoes that place excessive pressure on the nails. Nail trauma can lead to a range of issues, including bruising beneath the nail (subungual hematoma), nail discolouration, thickening, splitting, or even the complete loss of the nail.
Symptoms and Causes
Causes:
Direct Injury:
A sudden impact, such as dropping a heavy object on the toe or finger, or stubbing the toe, can cause immediate trauma to the nail. This can result in bleeding beneath the nail, leading to discolouration, and in severe cases, the nail may detach from the nail bed.
Repetitive Pressure:
Continuous pressure or friction, often from tight or ill-fitting footwear, can cause gradual trauma to the nails. Athletes, runners, and individuals who wear high heels or tight shoes are particularly susceptible to this type of nail trauma.
Sports and Physical Activities:
Sports that involve running, jumping, or activities where the toes are subjected to repeated impact (like football or ballet) can lead to trauma nails.
Symptoms:
Discolouration:
Trauma nails often appear black, blue, or purple due to bruising or bleeding beneath the nail (subungual hematoma). Over time, the discolouration may turn brown or yellow as the blood is reabsorbed.
Thickening and Deformation:
Repeated trauma can cause the nail to thicken, become ridged, or grow abnormally. In some cases, the nail may become brittle and prone to splitting.
Pain and Tenderness:
The initial injury may cause pain, especially when pressure is applied to the nail. The surrounding area may also become swollen and tender.
Nail Loss:
Severe trauma can cause the nail to loosen and eventually fall off. A new nail will typically grow in its place, but the process can take several months.
Management and treatment
Immediate Care:
Ice and Elevation:
Applying ice to the injured area and keeping the foot or hand elevated can help reduce swelling and pain immediately after the trauma occurs.
Pressure Relief:
If blood has pooled under the nail, creating significant pressure and pain, a healthcare professional may need to drain the blood by creating a small hole in the nail. This procedure, known as trephination, should be performed by a professional to avoid infection.
Ongoing Care:
Protecting the Nail:
To prevent further injury, it's important to protect the affected nail from additional trauma. This may involve wearing protective footwear, using cushioning or padding, or avoiding activities that put pressure on the nail.
Hygiene and Monitoring:
Keeping the area clean and dry is crucial to prevent infection, especially if the nail has detached. Monitoring the nail for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, is essential. If any of these symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought.
Treatment Options:
Trimming and Filing:
As the nail grows out, careful trimming and filing can help manage any irregularities and prevent snagging on clothing or shoes.
Nail Removal:
In some cases, where the nail is severely damaged or causing significant discomfort, partial or total removal of the nail may be necessary. This procedure should be performed by a healthcare professional.
Addressing Underlying Causes:
If trauma is due to ill-fitting footwear or repetitive activities, addressing these issues is important to prevent further damage. Properly fitted shoes and using protective gear during sports can help avoid repeated trauma.
Trauma nails can be painful and unsightly, but with proper care and attention, most cases will heal over time. Immediate management of the injury, followed by protective measures and good nail hygiene, can help prevent complications and promote healthy nail regrowth. If the trauma is severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of infection, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate treatment and care.