Tips for Managing a Fractured Toenail (And When to Consult a Physician)

Expert-recommended techniques for healing a torn or lifted toenail. Whether it's due to a sports-related injury or an accident at home, dealing with a torn toenail can be quite uncomfortable. Luckily, many torn toenails can be effectively treated at home with proper cleaning and pain control. We'll guide you through the necessary steps to maintain cleanliness and dryness of your toenail during the healing process. Additionally, we'll provide valuable advice on pain management and indicators that necessitate seeking medical attention.

Clip away any loose nail. Use sanitized nail clippers to carefully trim any unattached portion of the nail near the cuticle or where it's still connected. Smooth out any rough edges with a file to prevent snagging on clothing or bedding. Avoid forcefully pulling the nail to prevent bleeding; seek medical attention if you encounter difficulty trimming without causing injury.

Stop bleeding with direct pressure. Apply gentle pressure using a clean cloth or gauze pad to the bleeding toenail for about 10 minutes or until bleeding subsides. If bleeding persists after 15 minutes of pressure, seek medical assistance. Bleeding associated with detached toenails may not always occur due to injury, such as in cases of toenail fungus infection.

Thoroughly cleanse the wound with soapy water. Wet the affected toe and delicately wash the area with a soapy washcloth, removing any dirt or blood. Gentle pat the area dry with a clean towel to avoid further bleeding.

Apply petroleum jelly to cover the nail. Once the toe is clean and dry, spread a thin layer of petroleum jelly over the torn area to keep it moisturized and aid in healing. Consider using Neosporin as recommended by your doctor to prevent infection if necessary.

Apply a bandage to protect your toe. Use a gauze pad or bandage to cover your injured toe, securing it with medical tape. Change the bandage daily or if it becomes wet. Ensure the wrapping is snug but not too tight to avoid discomfort or circulation issues.

Use ice therapy every 2 hours. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your toe for 20 minutes every 2 hours initially, then every 3 to 4 hours thereafter to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Elevate your foot above heart level. Lie down and prop your foot up with pillows above heart level to reduce swelling and alleviate throbbing pain, especially during the first 48 hours after the injury.

Take over-the-counter pain relievers. Ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce swelling and pain, while acetaminophen can alleviate pain. Follow the recommended dosage on the package, but consult your doctor if you have certain health conditions.

Opt for open or roomy footwear for a few weeks. Avoid tight shoes that can cause discomfort on your injured toenail. Opt for open-toed or loose shoes to alleviate pressure and aid in healing until you feel comfortable.

Consult a doctor if signs of infection arise. Despite proper care, infection may occur. Look for red streaks, fever, or pus, which indicate infection. Prompt medical attention is crucial to address infections.

Visit your physician for worsening pain, redness, or swelling. Seek medical help if pain disrupts sleep or daily tasks, or if swelling persists despite medication and elevation. Severe or worsening symptoms warrant immediate attention.

Seek evaluation if your nail discolors. A crush injury may lead to a subungual hematoma, causing a bruise-like discoloration under the nail. Minor bruises may resolve naturally, but larger ones may require medical drainage to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications.

Consult your doctor if there's evident damage around the torn nail. The regrowth of your toenail hinges on the condition of the nail bed. Discuss with your doctor the possibility of a minor nail bed surgery if concerned about nail regrowth appearance. Seek medical attention if you notice visible damage to the tissue surrounding the nail.

Seek assistance if you struggle to clean the wound. If attempts to clean the wound persist for 15 minutes with visible dirt or debris remaining, seek medical aid promptly. Thorough wound cleaning is essential for infection prevention.

Opt for an x-ray if your toe exhibits immobility or misalignment. Injuries causing nail avulsion may coincide with bone fractures. Assess your toe for mobility and alignment abnormalities. Seek immediate medical attention for an x-ray and appropriate treatment if necessary.

• If your nail is severely damaged, it may naturally fall off within 1 to 2 weeks. Allow it to shed naturally rather than forcibly removing it.

• If you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or a weakened immune system, consult your doctor regarding a torn toenail. These underlying health conditions can exacerbate a minor issue, necessitating prompt medical attention.