Suggest Treatment For Bruised Cuticle On The Toes

Posted on Mon, 4 Jan 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 4 Jan 2016 Answered on

Mon, 1 Feb 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi. My name is XXXX. A week ago tomorrow I stubbed two of my toes digits 2&3. Digit 3 is healing well however digit 2 has a very black defined bruise around the cuticle but not the nail itself. The bruise is only1-2mm in width and creates a crescent shape around the toenail. It is not sore really, however the colour worries me a little. Cause for concern?? Thanks for your help with this :)

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
It can be collection of blood

Detailed Answer:
hello,
I have studied your case and i think that it is collection of blood which is causing this problem. but before I advised you any thing I would like to know little detail of your illness.
1.Are you Diabetic?
2.Do you feel sensation in black part ?
3.Can you send me picture of black toe?
Please send me answers of these questions. I will try my best to help you.
thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (1 hour later)

No i am not diabetic. The area feels squishy but not sore. Its the colour that i feel concern with. Thanks for your help :)

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
This is subungual haematoma

Detailed Answer:
hello,
I have seen your image and I can assure you that this is just subungual haematoma. This is collection of blood under toe skin. It is not a serious issue but it will take some time in complete healing. It can take upto months some time.
You need to take hot water fomentation and NSAID. No special treatment needed.
I hope answers your query. Let me know if there is any other followup questions.
thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (14 hours later)

Should i pierce the skin where the blood has built up at the cuticle or should i leave it?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Naveen Kumar Sharma (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Do not do nay thing

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I would suggest you to not do any thing, as it can cause infection. Just wait and watch.It will improve with its own.
thanks

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar