Ava Monroe
A trapped fingernail can be caused by a blow to the nail or by closing the finger in a door or drawer. This can result in blood under the nail, a condition called subungual hematoma. Treatment depends on the type and seriousness of the injury. If there is bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound and wash the area with soap and water. Cover the wound with a bandage and elevate the hand to prevent further bleeding. If there is a deep wound, seek medical attention as you may require stitches. If you are unable to move your finger, or if there is a broken bone, you should also seek medical help.
How to treat a trapped fingernail
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First steps after injury | Reduce swelling and redness |
| Cleaning the wound | Wash the wound with mild soap and water or an antibacterial rinse |
| Bleeding | Apply slight pressure with a clean cloth |
| Pain management | OTC pain relievers, ice |
| Elevation | Elevate the hand |
| Cold compress | Use a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling |
| Draining blood from under the nail | Heat a needle or the end of a paper clip until it is red-hot and use it to create a small hole through which blood can drain |
| Medical attention | Seek medical attention if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain, or if you think the finger is broken |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the wound with soap and water
If you have a trapped fingernail, it is important to clean the wound to prevent infection. Start by gently cleaning the injured area with mild soap and water. If there is an open wound, clean it as soon as possible by rinsing it with running tap water and washing around the wound with soap. Ensure that you remove any dirt or debris in the wound with tweezers that have been cleaned with alcohol.
After cleaning the wound, you can then address the pain and swelling. Apply ice to the injured finger by wrapping an ice pack or cold compress in a paper towel and placing it on the affected area. Keep the ice on for 10-minute intervals with 20-minute breaks for the first few hours after the injury. Be careful not to apply too much weight or pressure with the ice. Alternatively, you can apply ice for 15 minutes at a time, a couple of times an hour for the first few hours, ensuring that the ice pack is wrapped in a clean cloth to prevent cold injury to the skin.
Over-the-counter pain medication can help manage discomfort when following dosage guidelines or your healthcare provider's advice. It is also important to keep the injured area clean and dry during the day. Elevate the hand to reduce pain and swelling, and try to keep gently moving the finger as much as possible without increasing your pain.
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Apply ice to reduce swelling
Trapped fingernails can be extremely painful and often lead to swelling, bruising, and stiffness. To reduce swelling, applying ice is a highly recommended method. This can be done by using an ice pack or crushed ice, such as frozen peas, wrapped in a damp cloth or towel. This will help prevent cold injury to the skin.
It is important to note that you should not apply ice directly to the skin, and it should be wrapped securely before application. The ice should then be placed on the injured finger for 10 to 20 minutes every 2 hours on the first day and then 3 to 4 times a day after that. This timing is crucial to avoid skin damage and to effectively reduce swelling.
To further aid in reducing swelling, it is recommended to elevate the injured finger above the level of your heart. This slows the blood flow to the injured area, which in turn helps to reduce inflammation and ease throbbing pain. Additionally, keeping the finger immobile and resting on a covered ice pack can help prevent strain and promote healing.
It is also worth mentioning that while ice is an effective way to reduce swelling, it is important to monitor the affected area closely. If you notice any signs of poor circulation, such as tingling, numbness, or blueness of the skin, discontinue the use of ice and seek alternative methods or medical attention if necessary.
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Use OTC pain relievers
Trapped fingernails are often caused by a blow to the nail or by closing the finger in a door or drawer. This can result in blood under the nail, known as subungual hematoma, or a blood blister. In some cases, the nail may be torn or split, or a splinter may get under the nail.
If you are experiencing a trapped fingernail, you can use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers to help manage the pain. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use OTC pain relievers:
- Ibuprofen or Naproxen: These medications can help reduce pain and swelling. They are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that can be purchased without a prescription. Take the recommended dose as directed on the package or by your healthcare provider. It is important to follow the recommended dosage to avoid any potential side effects.
- Acetaminophen: This medication helps with pain relief but does not address swelling. You can buy acetaminophen products such as Tylenol without a prescription. Again, follow the recommended dosage instructions on the package or as advised by your healthcare provider.
- Cold Therapy: While not an oral medication, cold therapy can be an effective OTC pain reliever. Soak your injured finger in cold water for 20 minutes at a time, repeating as needed. This can help reduce pain and swelling. Alternatively, you can apply ice wrapped in a cloth to your injured finger for 20-minute intervals, several times a day. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a clean cloth to prevent cold injury to the skin.
- Topical Pain Relievers: In addition to oral medications, you can also use topical OTC pain relievers. Look for creams or gels that contain menthol, capsaicin, or arnica, as these ingredients have pain-relieving properties. Apply a small amount to the affected area and gently massage it into the skin. Always do a patch test first to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.
It is important to note that while OTC pain relievers can help manage the pain and swelling associated with a trapped fingernail, they will not address more severe injuries or underlying conditions. If your symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention. Additionally, always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new medication, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
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Cover the wound with a bandage
Covering the wound with a bandage is an important step in treating a trapped fingernail. It helps protect the injured area and promotes healing. Here is a detailed guide on how to effectively cover a trapped fingernail wound with a bandage:
Choose the Right Bandage:
Select a bandage that is large enough to cover the entire wound, including the injured fingernail and the surrounding affected area. It is recommended to use sterile gauze or a sterile bandage, especially if there is an open wound or infection. Make sure the bandage is clean and has not been used before.
Prepare the Fingernail:
Before applying the bandage, you may need to address the trapped fingernail. If the nail is severely damaged or lifted off the nail bed, carefully trim or cut the nail to prevent further injury. If there is blood trapped under the nail, causing severe pain and pressure, it is advisable to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional may recommend draining the blood using a procedure called trephination, which involves creating a small hole in the nail to release the blood.
Clean the Area:
Ensure that the injured finger and the surrounding area are clean before bandaging. Gently wash the wound with mild soap and water, or use an antibacterial rinse. Remove any dirt or debris with tweezers cleaned with alcohol. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth or paper towel before proceeding to bandage the wound.
Apply the Bandage:
Once the area is clean and prepared, carefully place the sterile gauze or bandage over the wound. Secure the bandage with tape or wrap it around the finger, ensuring that it is not too tight. The bandage should be snug enough to hold the gauze in place but not restrict blood flow to the finger.
Change the Bandage Regularly:
It is important to keep the wound clean and dry. Change the bandage at least once a day or more frequently if it becomes wet or soiled. Inspect the wound regularly for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If the wound is not healing properly or shows signs of infection, consult a healthcare professional for further advice and treatment.
Covering the trapped fingernail wound with a bandage is an essential step in the healing process. It helps protect the injury, keeps the area clean, and promotes healing by reducing the risk of infection.
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Seek medical attention if the injury is severe
Fingernail injuries can be extremely painful and may sometimes require medical attention. While minor injuries may heal on their own, it is important to know when to seek medical help.
If you experience persistent bleeding or have trouble controlling it, call your doctor. If the blood under your nail occupies more than half of the nail area, a physician should evaluate the finger because it could indicate an underlying bone fracture or tissue tear.
If you are unable to move your finger, it feels numb, or you are experiencing extreme pain, you should seek medical attention. Additionally, if your symptoms do not improve with basic treatment, or they worsen after 48 hours of home care, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
In the case of a deep wound that may require stitches or if you suspect a broken finger, do not hesitate to seek medical help. If the injury involves the palm or any of the joints, such as the finger or wrist, it is crucial to get immediate medical attention.
It is also important to keep your tetanus vaccination up to date in the event of a nail injury.
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Frequently asked questions
First, stop whatever you’re doing to prevent further injury. Calmly assess the damage and whether you need medical attention. If you are experiencing persistent bleeding or suspect a broken finger, seek medical attention.
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling. Applying ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured finger for 20-minute intervals several times a day can also help.
If there is blood under your nail, seek medical attention. A doctor can relieve the pressure and blood and prevent the fingernail from falling off by putting a small hole through the nail.
