Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

Bruise around the hallux

April 7, 2020 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Ralf Berg

I suddenly noticed that I have a bluish discoloration around the bone under my big toe (hallux). I can't remember bumping into anything. It doesn't hurt either and looks like a bruise or a large round hematoma around the bone. Could this be from uncomfortable shoes I was wearing or is there something more serious going on?

Dr. med. Ralf Berg

Dear inquirer,

As you describe it, it seems to be a subcutaneous hematoma, which is located under the skin. By applying great pressure on the ball of the toes, small veins can burst even without taking blood-thinning medication (such as aspirin, marcumar, etc.). The result is a bluish discoloration that will eventually disappear over time. Shoes can indeed be a trigger, and since it doesn't hurt at all, an inflammation is unlikely and there seems to be nothing serious behind it.

Best regards,
R. Berg