If you’ve noticed your toenail cracked in half, you’re not alone. Cracked toenails are a common issue we see at the Foot & Ankle Center of Arizona, especially among active individuals or patients with underlying medical conditions. While it may seem like a minor cosmetic flaw, a split or cracked toenail can cause pain, infection, and long-term nail damage if not treated properly.
In this post, we’ll explore what causes toenails to crack, how to treat them, and most importantly, how to fix a cracked toenail—whether your big toenail cracked vertically or big toenail cracked horizontally.
A toenail crack can appear in different ways:
Cracks in the big toenail are particularly troublesome due to the nail’s size and pressure from footwear. If your big toenail cracked vertically the nail may remain partially attached, posing a risk for infection and further tearing. When your big toenail cracked horizontally, it may feel unstable and painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes.
Stubbing your toe, dropping something on it, or long-distance running can lead to both horizontal and vertical cracks.
Fungal infections such as onychomycosis weaken the nail’s structure, making it prone to breaking and splitting.
A lack of biotin, iron, or protein in your diet can result in brittle nails.
Psoriasis, eczema, and thyroid disorders can lead to weak or damaged nails.
As we age, nails can dry out and lose flexibility, increasing the risk of cracking.
Rough trimming or filing can weaken nail edges, especially on large toenails.
If your big toenail cracked vertically, you may feel pressure or pain along the split, especially if it extends deep. A big toenail cracked horizontally can cause instability in the nail and increase the risk of the top part detaching.
Here’s how to fix a cracked toenail if the crack is minor and there’s no sign of infection:
Clean the Area
Wash with mild soap and warm water to remove dirt and bacteria.
Disinfect the Crack
Apply an antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to reduce infection risk.
Trim and File Gently
Clip any jagged or lifted edges carefully. Do not tear off any part of the nail.
Use Nail Glue or Medical Tape
For a temporary fix, use nail glue to hold the crack together. Cover with tape or a bandage to protect it from pressure.
Keep It Dry
Moisture can worsen nail conditions. Wear breathable socks and avoid soaking your feet.
Protect the Toenail
Use a toe cap or padded bandage when wearing shoes to reduce trauma to the area.
In mild cases, a toenail crack may grow out naturally as the nail regenerates. However, if the crack is deep, reaches the cuticle, or causes pain and infection, professional treatment is needed.
Toenails typically take 6–12 months to fully regrow. Healing time depends on the severity of the crack, your overall health, and whether any infection is present.
No, you should not pull off or remove a cracked toenail by yourself. Doing so can damage the nail bed and increase infection risk. A podiatrist can safely remove or stabilize it if needed.
For minor cracks, clean the nail, apply antiseptic, trim sharp edges, and protect it with medical tape or a bandage. Keeping feet dry and wearing protective shoes also helps healing.
You should see a podiatrist if the crack is severe, reaches the nail base, causes persistent pain, shows signs of infection, or if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
While minor cracks may heal on their own, some cases require medical attention. You should see a podiatrist if:
Our Scottsdale-based clinic offers expert care for all toenail-related concerns. Some of our advanced treatment options include:
Our FDA-approved laser treatment targets and kills nail fungus without affecting the surrounding skin or tissue.
For nails that are severely cracked or infected, partial removal can allow the nail to regrow cleanly and healthily.
We use medical-grade dressings and stabilization devices to promote healing while protecting the nail.
We provide guidance on long-term nail health through personalized treatment plans that include topical medications, nutrition, and foot hygiene.
A toenail cracked in half, whether vertically or horizontally, should never be ignored. Whether it’s from injury, fungus, or other health issues, understanding how to fix a cracked toenail and knowing when to seek professional help can make all the difference in your recovery.
At the Foot & Ankle Center of Arizona, we specialize in treating complex toenail conditions with advanced technology and compassionate care. If your big toenail cracked vertically or your big toenail cracked horizontally, our expert team is here to help you heal quickly and prevent future issues.