White Toe Syndrome

Specialties Med-Surg

Published

I have been working in med surge for six months, and would like to know if anyone else has exerienced this problem. When I get home from 13 or 14 hours of running up and down the halls, my toes are often hospital white on the ends. They pink up the next day, but now I have noticed one of my big toes is numb on the end. I have tried every shoe made, and only some old crocs prevent the problem. I guess it has to be the shoes. I have tried wearing shoes that are too big, but I trip over them. Not crazy about crocs, but do you guys think I should stick with them, or is there another answer?

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Specializes in Hospital Education Coordinator.

talk to a podiatrist

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Are you diabetic?

Maybe its PAD?

This has never happened to me personally.

I work 12 hr shifts. I usually only have problems with edema around my ankles.

Either way you should get checked out.

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Specializes in Med/Surg GI/GU/GYN.

Obviously we can't diagnose here but it sounds like your toes are a) scrunching up against the ends of your shoes and b) your feet are sweating & toes are staying moist for long periods of time. Definitely get it checked out by a doctor & then buy good athletic socks & find a shoe THAT FITS but has a little wider toe box. Shoes that are too big can cause the same problems as shoes that are too small because your feet will slide in the too big shoes & your toes will still be against the ends of the shoes. At least for the first time, go to a specialty running or walking store where the employee are knowledgeable about the socks and the shoes. Sounds weird but even the socks make a difference. It took me almost 2 years to find the right shoe for 12 hour shifts--good running shoes. Lightweight, cushy, supportive. My back, hips, knees & feet no longer hurt after long hours of standing & walking.

You only get one set of feet so treat them well & your entire body will thank you! :twocents:

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Specializes in Medical.

Also think about cotton socks that wick away sweat...

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Thanks guys! Calling the foot doctor today!!

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Specializes in Cardiology.

I have the same problem! Just wondering, are your feet doing better after seeing the doctor? :)

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