toe issue, help?

[RoadBunner]

I've found that if the nail totally falls off, there's actually a very thin "nail" remaining underneath (vs. say regular skin). I just let it grow and eventually it thickens back up to normal. Make sure your toenails are trimmed as short as possible, too. If they're long, that's more leverage for the nail to get lifted off

[Wahine]

You are likely hitting the nail somehow when you run. I never feel anything while I'm doing an activity, only later. Just has to do with endorphins during exercise etc. I have to buy running shoes a full size larger than my street shoes to keep from hitting my nails in the toe box. So yup, I'd say you need new shoes.

[katluvr]

I have small feet and short toes...no really they are short! I, too, when I get to running distances get this ucky toe nail on my second toe. Last time I had it on both feet. I tried to keep it trimmed short. Yes, it feels like it is lifting up...then it gets gnarly (yes, I call it my gnarly toes) and thick under neath. This time I still kept trimming AND the never fell off. SO it is now summer--yes, I keep them painted and I am still "trimming" as they slowly grow out. My shoes are plenty big and nice roomy toe box. Anyone use any of teh toe guards. I worry about causing blistes if I try anythign like that. (Plus my toes are so small doubt the would fit!). I am not running much right now--but plan an 1/2 marathon in Nov. I just don't want to go thru this again.

[Kimmyt]

I've found that if the nail totally falls off, there's actually a very thin "nail" remaining underneath (vs. say regular skin). I just let it grow and eventually it thickens back up to normal. Make sure your toenails are trimmed as short as possible, too. If they're long, that's more leverage for the nail to get lifted off

Be careful trimming them very short, as this could lead to ingrowns. If you cut the toenal in a straight line across instead of making a deep curve down in twoards the side of the nail it is less likely to become ingrown.

My toenails are constantly in a state of disarray. I would think the missing toenail means your shoes are too small. I increased a 1/2 size in my most recent pair of running shoes, so now I wear a 9 in running shoes instead of my regular 8 1/2 street shoe. Your feet move around alot so make sure you ahve room!

K.