An injury to the toe often results in a blacked toenail. This is because the skin below the nail gets bruised resulting in the formation of a blood blister. Just as the skin gets discolored when bruised due to an injury, so do the nails. When the toe gets bruised, the tissues present in the skin below it, get damaged, causing the blood vessels to rupture. The broken blood vessels then begin to leak blood into the surrounding tissue, which leads to a black and blue discoloration of the skin. This may or may not be accompanied by swelling and pain. When the toenail gets damaged, it starts chipping off and ultimately breaks off. However, the nail will grow back in about 6 months, but you will have to ensure that the new growth does not result in an ingrown toenail.
Please bear in mind that the blacked toenail is characteristic of a bruised toe. There is not much that you could do about it, hence it would be best not interfere with it, as it may hamper the growth of the nail. The black portion will eventually grow out. Furthermore, do not buff or polish the nail, as this will restrict oxygen supply, which in turn will lengthen the healing process. Here are a few home remedies that will help in treating a bruised toenail. Dip the concerned foot in a tub or bucket of ice cold water. This will soothe the skin and reduce pain. Add a teaspoon of salt to a liter of warm water. Soak your foot in this solution for about 15-20 minutes. Dry the toe with a soft towel and then apply 2-3 drops of tea tree oil onto the blackened portion of the nail, as well as the nail bed that is now exposed. This remedy should be performed once a day on a regular basis for 2-3 months. This will prevent an infection from setting in and will also promote the growth of the nail.
Mix together 2-3 tablespoons of plain flour and half a teaspoon of mustard oil so as to form a thick dough. Cover the affected area with the dough and leave the application on for 15-20 minutes. This remedy will help in combating pain, while also getting rid of any swelling that may be present. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight and keep your feet well protected and covered so as to prevent any further injury to the toe.
answered by G M