Fingernail and Toenail Injuries
Protect against fingernail and toenail injuries
Fingernail and toenail injuries usually occur when there is some kind of crushing injury to the fingertip or toe, which results in blood pooling underneath the nail (the medical term for this is subungual hematoma).
Fingernail and toenail injuries can be quite painful as pressure develops under the nail. If the injury is small, treatment is not necessary and the condition will resolve on its own. If a larger injury is present, treatment often involves drilling or cauterizing a hole in the nail (using an anesthetic), which will release the accumulation of blood and relieve the pain. Your doctor will place your injured finger or toe in a gauze dressing to absorb the blood and keep the injury site clean.
More significant fingernail or toenail injuries may occur when the nail is partially or completely torn away with additional injury to the nail bed. Treatment for this kind of fingernail or toenail injury involves stitches to restore the nail, making it more likely that a new nail will grow back and retain a normal appearance to the injured finger or toe.
When a fingernail or toenail injury involves the underlying bone, your doctor may perform x-rays to detect the possibility of fracture. This kind of injury is treated with ice packs and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. If you have a fracture, you may need a splint, and will likely be prescribed antibiotics if your fracture is accompanied by lacerations. Pain can be treated by over-the-counter and/or prescription pain relievers.
