Yao Ming -- Medical Advisory

Houston Rockets center Yao Ming had the nail removed from his left big toe after initial consultation with team physician Dr. Thomas Clanton. The procedure was performed as a precautionary measure and he is expected to return to action in approximately seven to 10 days.

"We felt that it was in Yao's best interest to remove the nail. The problem is completely unrelated to the infection that Yao had in his left great toe last year." said Clanton. "The nail was not growing in properly, and while he was not feeling any discomfort at the time, we decided it would be best to remove the nail. This is a very common procedure that is performed on many athletes and there should be no long-lasting effects moving forward."