Toenail removal may occur for a variety of reasons. Toenails may need to be removed because of trauma, infection, and most commonly, an ingrown toenail. Toenail removal is a minor surgical procedure that generally involves administration of a local anesthetic in a doctor's office. Running immediately following toenail removal surgery is not advised.
Toenail Removal Surgery
Toenail removal surgery is largely performed as the result of an ingrown toenail -- a toenail that has grown partially or completely into the skin. Surgery alleviates pain, swelling, inflammation, and infection and corrects any deformities or abnormal toenail growths. This procedure is commonly performed in a podiatrist's office. A local anesthetic will be injected into your toe so that you do not feel the procedure. A surgeon will then cut the entire nail or a portion of your nail down to its cuticle -- the very bottom of your nail. You may feel mild pain or pressure during the procedure. A toenail removal surgery usually takes less than an hour.
Recovery
Your affected toe will be bandaged and you will be sent home to recover. You will be asked to avoid placing weight on your toe for the first day. This is done by keeping your affected foot elevated as much as possible. Your surgeon will also provide you with pain medications and clean dressings. You will need to keep your toe dry and clean by changing the dressings daily for the first couple of days after surgery.
Running
The American Academy of Family Physicians indicates you should not participate in running or any other form of strenuous physical activity until your toe is completely healed. This should take about two weeks. Follow the advice of your doctor and do not run until your doctor has indicated your toe is healed. Wearing snug-fitting running shoes can cause pain as you recover. Additionally, sweating as you run will not keep your affected toenail dry. Moisture and sweat by your toe can lead to infection and delay your healing process.
Considerations
Having toenail removal surgery does not mean you cannot engage in any form of physical activity while you recover. Ask your doctor about types of physical activity you can do. Consider cross-training as you recover. Cross-training involves a variety of physical activities to maintain your strength and endurance. In this case, you may be cleared for low-impact activity. Low-impact exercises place little to no stress on your feet as you recover. Ask your doctor if cycling, walking on a treadmill or using an elliptical machine is a suitable form of exercise as you recover from toenail removal.
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