Liam Carter
Injured nails are common and can be caused by car doors, kitchen accidents, sports injuries, stubbed toes, or ill-fitting shoes. Depending on the severity of the injury, you can treat a damaged thumbnail at home or seek medical attention. Home treatment typically involves trimming away any detached parts of the nail, cleaning the wound, and applying a bandage. More severe injuries, such as those with heavy bleeding, discolouration, or intense pain, may require a visit to a dermatologist or emergency medical care. In some cases, a doctor may need to remove the nail and repair the nail bed to ensure proper healing and prevent abnormal nail growth.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to remove a damaged thumbnail | If the nail is severely damaged, torn, or detached, it may need to be removed. If there is bleeding, pain, or signs of infection, seek medical advice. |
| Home treatment | Minor nail injuries can often be treated at home. Soak the nail in cold water, then gently trim or cut away any detached or hanging parts of the nail. Clean the wound with soap and water. |
| Medical treatment | A doctor may remove a damaged thumbnail by numbing the finger, then repairing the nail bed with dissolvable stitches. They may also drain blood from under the nail (trephination). |
| Aftercare | Keep the wound clean and dry. Apply petroleum jelly and a non-stick bandage. Take painkillers for pain and swelling. Elevate the hand to reduce swelling. |
| Prevention | Keep nails short to prevent catching and tearing. Ensure shoes fit well and wear protective gear during sports. |
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What You'll Learn
When to seek medical help
If you've damaged your thumbnail, it's important to know when to seek medical help. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you make that decision:
Firstly, if you experience a hard impact or trauma to your thumb, and there is a bruise forming or your nail is loose, don't hesitate to seek medical attention. A subungual hematoma, which is the medical term for a bruised nail, can cause severe throbbing pain and may indicate a more serious injury. If you see blood or bruising under your nail, it's recommended to seek medical care within two days. The trapped blood under your nail can put pressure on the nerves in your thumb, causing excruciating pain and affecting your ability to perform daily activities.
Secondly, if your thumbnail is cut, torn, or smashed, and you are unable to stop the bleeding quickly, it's important to seek medical help. Apply pressure with a clean cloth for several minutes to control the bleeding. If the bleeding doesn't stop, go to an urgent care centre or emergency room. They will be able to stop the bleeding, clean the wound, and provide the necessary treatment.
Additionally, if your thumbnail injury is accompanied by severe pain, it's important to seek medical attention. Take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage the pain and reduce swelling. If the pain persists or worsens, don't delay in seeking medical care.
In the case of a deep cut or a suspected broken bone in your thumb, it's crucial to seek medical help immediately. A small bone fracture may be difficult to identify without an X-ray, so it's important to get a professional opinion. Untreated fractures can heal incorrectly, leading to long-term pain and interference with the natural function of your thumb.
Lastly, if your thumbnail has been damaged by a heavy object or a sharp object, and the injury doesn't seem to be healing properly after a few days, it's advisable to see a board-certified dermatologist or your healthcare provider. They can help provide relief, address any underlying issues, and ensure proper healing of the nail bed. Remember, even a small injury to your nail bed can affect nail growth and cause permanent nail deformity.
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Trimming the nail
Trimming a damaged thumbnail requires careful attention to avoid further injury and prevent infection. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you trim a damaged thumbnail safely and effectively:
Prepare the Necessary Tools:
Before you begin, ensure you have the right tools on hand. You will need a nail clipper or nail scissors designed for trimming fingernails. It is important to use the appropriate tool to ensure precision and avoid further injury. Additionally, you should disinfect your nail-trimming tool by soaking it in a scrub brush dipped in 70% to 90% isopropyl alcohol. Rinse the tool with hot water and dry it completely before using it.
Soften the Nail:
For easier and safer trimming, it is recommended to trim your nails immediately after taking a bath or shower. The warm water helps to soften the nails, making them more pliable and reducing the risk of cracking or uneven tearing during the trimming process.
Trim the Nail:
When trimming a damaged thumbnail, use slow and gentle motions to avoid causing further injury. Cut almost straight across the nail, taking care not to trim the nail too short. Trimming the nail too aggressively or too short can lead to pain and potential ingrown nail issues. If there is a detached or hanging part of the nail, gently trim away the portion that is not connected to your skin. Use small and controlled snips to gradually remove the damaged part of the nail. If the nail is only partially attached, you may use small scissors to carefully remove the detached portion.
File the Nail:
After trimming, use a nail file or emery board to gently smooth the edges of your nail. Filing helps prevent sharp edges that can catch on clothing or other surfaces, reducing the risk of further tearing or injury. Round the corners of your nail slightly to keep them strong and minimize the chances of catching or tearing.
Clean and Dress the Wound:
Once you have trimmed and filed the nail, gently clean the wound using soap and water. If there is bleeding, avoid covering the wound with a dry bandage or gauze, as it may stick to the wound. Instead, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist and promote healing. Then, cover the area with gauze or a non-stick adhesive bandage to protect the nail and prevent infection.
Soak in Cold Water:
After trimming and dressing the wound, it is recommended to soak your thumb in cold water for about 20 minutes. This helps reduce swelling and provides relief from pain and discomfort. You can also apply a cool, damp washcloth to the wound to aid in reducing swelling.
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Cleaning the wound
If your thumb is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth for several minutes to stop the bleeding. If the nail is torn, use sterile scissors to cut off rough edges to prevent further injury.
Once the bleeding has stopped, clean the wound and nail area with soap and warm water. Be sure to gently clean the wound, taking care not to cause further injury. If the wound is still bleeding, do not put a dry bandage or gauze on top as it will stick to the wound. Instead, apply petroleum jelly to keep the wound moist, then cover it with gauze or a bandage.
If there is a lot of blood under your nail bed, it is recommended to see a doctor. They will be able to drain the accumulated blood by drilling a small hole in the nail plate. This will relieve the pressure and pain.
If you notice any signs of infection, such as pus, redness, or heat around the nail, remove the bandage and seek medical attention.
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Applying a bandage
Cleaning the Wound:
Before applying any bandage, it is crucial to clean the wound properly. If any part of your nail is hanging or detached, gently trim away the part that is not connected to your skin. Use sharp scissors to carefully remove the loose or detached part of the nail. Then, gently clean the wound by washing it with soap and water. Ensure you rinse away any soap residue afterward. If there is bleeding, let it stop and allow the wound to air dry before proceeding.
Applying Petroleum Jelly:
Once the wound is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to the affected area. This helps to keep the wound moist, promoting healing and preventing the bandage from sticking directly to the wound, which can cause further irritation or pain when removed.
Covering with Gauze or a Bandage:
Now, you can cover the wound with a bandage or gauze. Choose a non-stick, breathable adhesive bandage or gauze pad to place over the wound. Make sure to only apply sticky products, such as the adhesive parts of the bandage, to the skin around your nail and not directly on the nail bed to avoid further irritation. If using gauze, secure it in place with medical tape, ensuring the tape only touches your skin and not the wound itself.
Wrapping with an Elastic Bandage:
Consider wrapping your thumb with an elastic bandage for added protection and support. However, be careful not to wrap the bandage too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort. The bandage should feel snug but not tight.
Changing the Dressing:
Keep the bandage clean and dry. If it gets wet or soiled, replace it with a fresh one. Depending on the severity of the injury and the advice of your healthcare provider, you may need to change the dressing daily or every few days. Always wash your hands before and after handling the bandage to prevent infection.
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Preventing further injuries
Once you have removed your damaged thumbnail, you will need to take extra care to prevent further injuries and allow your nail to heal. Here are some ways to do this:
Keep the area clean and dry: Wash your hands gently with soap and water, being careful not to irritate the affected area. Avoid soaking your hand or using harsh chemicals or soaps that may cause further irritation.
Protect the area: Cover the injured thumb with a bandage or a plaster to keep it protected and to prevent further injury or infection. Change the dressing regularly to ensure the area stays clean and dry.
Avoid nail salons: It is best to avoid nail salons and stick to DIY manicures until your nail has grown out. At a nail salon, there is a risk of introducing bacteria or fungus, especially if tools like scissors are used on your nail.
Be mindful of any pain or discomfort: In the days following the injury, keep an eye out for signs of infection. These include persistent pain, redness, swelling, or the presence of pus. If you experience any of these symptoms, see a doctor or dermatologist as soon as possible.
Monitor blood flow and sensation: Check that blood is still flowing to your thumb by pressing on an uninjured part of the nail or finger. If the area turns white and then pink again when you release the pressure, you have good capillary refill. Also, touch the tip of your thumb to ensure you still have feeling in the area.
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