Hjete Posted August 14, 2002 Report Share Posted August 14, 2002 I've taken technique classes but not pointe this summer, so I don't currently have this problem, but in May, one or two of my toenails seemed to have two layers. It looked like the pressure from my pointe shoes caused the nail to split or grow another layer. (This didn't hurt, though.) The nail was also sort of attached right underneath with whitish skin (I couldn't lift it slightly if I wanted to clean under it as I usually can). Once I stopped pointe and my feet started looking "normal" again ( -; , one of the toenails healed completely. After a week or two, the top layer (whitish translucent) of the other toenail fell off completely. It didn't hurt at all, and the layer underneath was a full, healthy-looking toenail. (The layer that came off was thinner, but under it was normal thickness) I was wondering if anyone else has had this happen, what it could be caused by, or if I should be concerned if this happens again when I begin pointe again in the fall. I realize pointe does strange things to feet, but this isn't something I've heard of before (blisters, callouses, etc.). Oh, I wear Bloch Suprimas that seem to fit well, and I use Big Tips on my big toes, but just paper towel elsewhere...if that makes a difference. Thanks for your help! Link to comment
Mel Johnson Posted August 14, 2002 Report Share Posted August 14, 2002 This "double nail" phenomenon is pretty common and even happens to non-dancers! It's caused by percussion, usually, as in the foot striking the floor hard and repeatedly so as to dislodge the top nail from the nail bed. That cues the nail germ cells to start generating a new nail under the old one, and eventually the top one drops off, as you've experienced. Usually, the process is painless, and is really harmless. Link to comment
Hjete Posted August 15, 2002 Author Report Share Posted August 15, 2002 Thank you so much for clearing up my concern, Major Johnson! I've been away from home for two months and just came back yesterday to read the boards here. I was sorry to hear you were in the hospital, but I take it you are out now since you replied to my post. So glad to hear that, and I'll pray for your continued recovery! Thanks again. Link to comment
Mel Johnson Posted August 15, 2002 Report Share Posted August 15, 2002 I'm always grateful for good wishes, and even more for prayer. Thank you. Link to comment
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