File any part of the leftover nail so that it’s smooth. This will help you avoid catching it on socks and bedding. Don’t rip at your toenail when you cut it, because you don’t want to cause bleeding. If you’re not able to cut the toenail without cutting into your skin, see a doctor for treatment. [2] X Expert Source Mark Co, DPMPodiatrist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020.
If the bleeding hasn’t slowed after 15 minutes of pressure, seek medical care. Not all detached toenails are caused by injury. If you are dealing with toenail fungus, you probably won’t have any bleeding to worry about.
Gently pat the area dry with a clean towel or washcloth. Do not rub the area, which might cause more bleeding.
If you’re worried about infection or your doctor recommends it, apply Neosporin to help fight off bacteria.
Don’t wrap your toe so tightly that it turns red or purple or loses feeling. The wrapping should stay in place and be snug, but not be uncomfortably tight. Ideally, put a new bandage on your toe each night before you go to bed. This will protect your injured nail from snagging on bedding or hitting something while you sleep.
Always wrap an ice pack in a towel to avoid hurting your skin.
If you have heart disease, kidney problems, high blood pressure, or have ever had stomach ulcers, talk to your doctor before using these medications.
Your doctor will prescribe you antibiotics to treat an infected toe. Take these as prescribed and until they’re gone.
Some swelling is to be expected, especially right after you suffered a torn nail. [13] X Expert Source Mark Co, DPMPodiatrist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020. However, see your doctor for severe swelling, or swelling that worsens after a few days, as it could indicate an infection. Ask questions like, “My toe hurts more today than it did yesterday and Tylenol isn’t helping, is that okay?” or “How much swelling is normal?”
Your doctor will drill a very small hole in your toenail to let the blood drain out. This procedure shouldn’t hurt, and draining the blood will make your toe feel better because it relieves the pressure.
Do not attempt to cut your torn toenail yourself if doing so would cause you to bleed. [16] X Expert Source Mark Co, DPMPodiatrist Expert Interview. 21 April 2020. It may take 6 to 12 months for a toenail to completely regrow.
Depending on how you hurt your toe, you might also need a tetanus shot or tetanus booster. If the cut is dirty and it has been 5 years or more since your last booster, then you will need a tetanus shot.
Broken toes typically heal well on their own, as long as you splint them.
