What causes thick, discolored toenails?

Thick, yellow-brown, or brittle toenails are most commonly caused by fungal infection (onychomycosis), affecting 10–14% of the population. Other causes include psoriasis, repeated microtrauma from tight shoes, peripheral vascular disease, and age-related changes. A podiatrist can clip a nail sample for lab analysis to confirm the diagnosis before recommending treatment.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Mild ingrown toenails can sometimes be managed at home by soaking twice daily and placing a small piece of cotton under the corner. If there is pus, significant swelling, or the corner is deeply embedded, see a podiatrist. In-office treatment involves local anesthesia and removal of the offending nail border. For recurrent ingrown nails, phenol matrixectomy permanently prevents regrowth of that nail edge.

Can toenail changes be a sign of a systemic disease?

Yes. Nail pitting and separation suggest psoriasis; spoon-shaped nails suggest iron-deficiency anemia; yellow nails may indicate lymphedema or rheumatoid arthritis; splinter hemorrhages can indicate infective endocarditis. Diabetic patients frequently develop nail thickening from microtrauma and circulation changes. Podiatrists examine nails at every visit with systemic conditions in mind.

When should I see a podiatrist for a toenail problem?

See a podiatrist if a toenail is painful, infected, has changed color or thickness over months, is growing into the skin, or if you have diabetes and notice any nail change. Diabetic patients should never cut ingrown or thickened nails at home. Balance Foot & Ankle provides nail care in Howell and Bloomfield Hills — call (810) 206-1402.

Lost Toenail From Running 2026 | Podiatrist

You are in the right place. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — board-certified foot & ankle surgeon with 3,000+ surgeries — explains exactly what lost toenail from running means and what works. Call (810) 206-1402 for same-day appointment at Howell or Bloomfield Hills.

lost-toenail-from-running - Balance Foot & Ankle Michigan

Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS

Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon · 3,000+ surgeries · @MichiganFootDoctors (950K+ subscribers)

Last reviewed May 11, 2026 · (810) 206-1402

Watch: Tea Tree Oil Toenail Fungus Home Treatment [Doctor Cure!] — MichiganFootDoctors YouTube

Lost Toenail From Running: Recovery Guide

Quick answer: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM walks you through runner’s toenail loss including home care, when to seek professional help.

Initial Care

Clean wound thoroughly, apply antibiotic ointment, cover with sterile dressing, watch for signs of infection.

When to Worry

Severe pain, increasing redness, pus, fever, or red streaking warrant immediate care.

Schedule

Call (810) 206-1402.

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot and ankle conditions, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.

Same-day appointments available. (810) 206-1402

Learn about our podiatric treatment → | Book online →

Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel

Natural topical pain relief I use in our clinic. Arnica + camphor formula — apply directly to the area 3–4x daily. ($20–25)

Shop Doctor Hoy’s →

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take a toenail to grow back?

6-12 months for a full big toenail. Smaller toenails 4-6 months. Speed varies with age, circulation, and nutrition.

Will this affect other nails?

Trauma affects only the injured nail. Fungal infection can spread without treatment. Systemic causes affect multiple nails simultaneously.

Should I cover the nail or leave it open?

Cover with a breathable bandage during work or activity. Leave open at night for healing. Keep dry and clean.

APMA: Toenail Loss from Running — Recovery & Prevention

Ready to fix this for good?

Reading goes so far. The fastest path is a 30-minute office visit. Same-day Howell or Bloomfield Hills. Call (810) 206-1402.

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Lost Toenail From Running: Recovery Guide

Initial Care

When to Worry

Schedule

In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle

Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take a toenail to grow back?

Will this affect other nails?

Should I cover the nail or leave it open?

Ready to fix this for good?

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Howell

Balance Foot & Ankle \u2014 Bloomfield Hills