Sophia Delgado
Nail injuries can be extremely painful and sensitive. The pain and swelling should subside within a week, but it can take several months for a nail that has separated from the nail bed to grow back. In the case of a broken bone in the finger or toe, it will take about four weeks to heal. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury, and sometimes a doctor may need to create a small hole in the nail to drain blood and relieve pressure and pain.
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What You'll Learn
Home remedies for nail pain
Pain in your nails can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, nail biting, injury, or irritation. In some cases, the pain may resolve without medical treatment. However, if the pain is severe or persistent, it is important to consult a doctor for advice. Here are some home remedies that can help alleviate nail pain:
Soaking in Warm or Room-Temperature Soapy Water
Soaking the affected nail in warm or room-temperature soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day, can help reduce swelling and ease the pain. Adding Epsom salts to the water may provide additional relief. Ensure that you thoroughly dry your nails and feet after soaking.
Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water and soak the affected nail for up to 20 minutes daily. Remember to dry your nails and feet thoroughly after soaking.
Massaging the Affected Area
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons recommends massaging the side where your skin meets the nail. Massaging can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Keeping the Area Clean and Moisturized
It is important to keep the affected nail and the surrounding area clean and moisturized. Gently wash any minor cuts or scrapes and apply a bandage if needed. Keeping the area moisturized can help prevent dryness and further irritation.
Applying a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress or soaking your nails in ice-cold water for a few minutes can help numb the pain and reduce throbbing. This is especially useful if you are experiencing pain after a manicure or pedicure.
Using Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
It is important to note that these home remedies are generally safe and effective for mild to moderate nail pain. However, if the pain persists or worsens, or if you suspect an infection, it is crucial to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional. They can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments, including prescription medications or, in rare cases, surgery.
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Medical treatments for nail pain
Nail pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, injury, or irritation. In some cases, the pain may resolve without medical treatment, but if it is severe or persistent, it is important to seek medical advice. Here are some medical treatments for nail pain:
Antibiotics
Nail infections, such as paronychia, can be treated with antibiotics. Paronychia is an inflammation of the skin around the nail caused by bacteria or fungi entering through broken skin near the cuticle and nail fold. Antibiotics help to kill the infection and prevent its recurrence. It is important to follow the doctor's instructions and complete the entire course of antibiotics.
Drainage
In some cases, an abscess may form due to an infection. Minor procedures such as drainage may be necessary to relieve the pressure and pain. Healthcare providers may make a small cut to drain the pus and then cover the area with a bandage.
Surgery
For more severe or complex cases of nail injuries, surgery may be required. This could involve removing part or all of the nail, repairing the nail bed, and possibly using special glue or stitches to reattach the nail. If the nail cannot be saved, a special type of material may be placed on the nail bed to aid in healing.
Medication
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking these medications, especially if you have certain medical conditions. In some cases, prescription-strength medication may be necessary.
Splinting and Special Shoes
In some cases, a splint or special shoe may be recommended to protect the injured nail and allow it to heal. This can provide stability and support to the affected area.
It is important to follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider and seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent nail pain.
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Nail pain after getting acrylic nails
It is quite common to experience pain after getting acrylic nails. For most people, the pain from a fresh acrylic manicure should only last a day or two, although this could be slightly longer for those with sensitive nails.
There are several reasons why your nails might hurt after getting acrylics. Firstly, the process of filing down your natural nails exposes your nail plate and the nerves underneath, making them more sensitive to pressure. Thick acrylic nails can be particularly uncomfortable due to the extra weight on your nail plate. Additionally, if your cuticles are cleaned and trimmed too aggressively, it can cause pain if live skin is picked at. The acrylic may also be applied directly onto the cuticle, which can be painful as it slowly separates from the nail while the cuticle grows out. Some people may also experience a painful tightening sensation as the acrylic settles and creates a firm seal over the nails.
In some cases, the pain may be due to poor acrylic application, either by a technician or at home. This can include applying too much pressure during the manicure or creating an overly thick layer of acrylic. If you have sensitive nails or an active lifestyle, opting for short-tip nails can help alleviate pain.
If you experience prolonged or severe pain after getting acrylic nails, it is important to seek advice from a doctor or nail technician. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments.
To relieve minor discomfort after getting acrylic nails, you can try the following:
- Soak your nails in acetone to safely remove the acrylics without causing pain.
- Use a nail strengthener to help safeguard your nails as they return to normal.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and soothe irritation.
- Take pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage pain and swelling.
- Keep your nails moisturized with cuticle oil to ease irritation and dry skin.
- Avoid activities that may further aggravate your nails, such as cooking or typing.
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How to prevent nail pain when getting a manicure
Getting a manicure is meant to be a relaxing experience, but sometimes things can go wrong, and you can be left with sore nails. The pain from a manicure should only last a day or two, but if it goes on longer than this, you should seek advice from a nail technician. So, what can you do to prevent nail pain when getting a manicure?
Firstly, it's important to be vocal about any pain you're experiencing during the manicure. While it may be an awkward conversation, it's important to remember that you are paying for a service, and you shouldn't have to endure pain. Speak up, and the technician should adjust their technique.
If you know you have sensitive nails, it's a good idea to opt for short-tip nails, which will be less likely to cause pain. Keeping your cuticles hydrated before a manicure will also help to prevent pain when they are being cleaned.
If you are getting acrylic nails, you may experience a painful tightening sensation, especially if it's your first time. This is due to the acrylic settling and creating a firm seal. If you have thin or sensitive nails, you may be more prone to this pain, and it could be an indication that your body is rejecting the acrylic.
You can also experience pain if the manicurist applies too much pressure or creates too thick an acrylic application. This is more likely to happen if they are inexperienced. Filing down your natural nail is part of the process, but it exposes the nerves underneath, making them more sensitive.
If you are getting a gel manicure, you may experience 'heat spikes', which can cause severe discomfort. This is often due to damage to your nail plate, such as over-filing or buffing. It can also be caused by a reaction to specific ingredients in the polish, such as HEMA. To minimise the risk of heat spikes, ask your manicurist if their UV/LED lamp corresponds to the brand of gel nail polish they are using. Professional lamps often have features to reduce heat spikes, such as slow-curing settings and pulsing lights.
If you are doing your own manicure at home, be sure to follow safety tips and adjust your technique accordingly if you experience any pain.
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What to do if you have a serious nail injury
A serious nail injury can be extremely painful and may require urgent medical attention. Here are some steps to follow if you experience a serious nail injury:
Stop the Bleeding
If your nail injury is bleeding, the first step is to stop the bleeding. Apply pressure with a clean cloth to the affected area. If the bleeding is severe or does not stop after applying pressure, seek medical attention immediately.
Remove Jewellery and Wash the Wound
If you are wearing any jewellery on the affected hand or finger, gently remove it. If your finger is swollen, do not force the jewellery off as it may cause further injury. Instead, apply soap to help the ring slip off more easily. Once the jewellery is removed, gently wash any minor cuts or scrapes with warm water and mild soap.
Apply a Bandage
After cleaning the wound, cover it with a bandage or small piece of gauze to keep the area clean and protected. Do not use sticky products directly on the nail, as this can irritate the injury. Instead, apply adhesive products to the skin around the nail to secure the bandage.
Elevate and Ice the Injury
To help reduce swelling and throbbing pain, keep your hand or foot elevated above the level of your heart. Additionally, apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured area for 20 minutes every 2 hours on the first day, and then 3 to 4 times a day after that.
Seek Medical Attention
For more serious nail injuries, such as lacerations, avulsions, large nail bruises, or if the finger or toe is bent or deformed, go to an urgent care centre or hospital emergency department. Do not try to remove the nail or pull at it. If the nail has been amputated, wrap it in a moist clean paper towel and place it in a plastic bag with ice. Bring this with you to the hospital.
Follow-up Care
After receiving initial treatment for your nail injury, continue to care for the wound as recommended by your healthcare provider. You may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection or pain medication to manage discomfort. Keep the area clean and protected, and follow any specific instructions provided by your doctor. Remember to keep your nails short and well-maintained to prevent future nail injuries.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many reasons why your nails might hurt. Nails may hurt due to an infection, nail biting, injury, or other causes. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve home remedies and medical treatments.
The duration of the pain depends on the underlying cause. For minor injuries, the pain should subside within a few days. However, for more severe issues, such as a subungual hematoma or a fungal infection, the pain may persist for several months or until the issue is properly treated.
There are several things you can do to relieve nail pain. Soaking the nail in warm or cool water, applying antibiotic ointment, and keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent and treat infections. For pain caused by acrylic nails, removing the acrylics, disinfecting any injuries, and strengthening your natural nails may help. If the pain is severe or persistent, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nail technician for advice and treatment.
