Podiatrist Offices Conveniently Located In Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry & Montclair New Jersey

Innovative Foot & Ankle

Footnotes / Blog

Sunday, June 10th, 2018 Elizabeth Anthony

A Puncture Wound is a small entry hole with a pointed sharp object, e.g. a needle, screw, glass.

Summer is a common time of year for patients to present with such wounds. They can vary from minor injuries to serious problems.

If not properly treated, seriously complications can develop from puncture wounds, which could include hospital stays and surgery to remove infection.

Severity of Wounds

There are different ways of determining the severity of a puncture wound.

  • Depth of the wound is one way to evaluate it. The deeper the puncture, the more likely it is that complications, such as infection, will develop. Many patients cannot judge how far their puncture extends into the foot. Therefore, if you have stepped on something and the skin was penetrated, seek treatment as soon as possible.
  • The type and cleanliness of the penetrating object also determine the severity of the wound. Larger or longer objects can penetrate deeper into the tissues, possibly causing more damage. The dirtier an object, such as a rusty nail, the more dirt and debris are dragged into the wound, increasing the chance of infection.

Another thing that can determine wound severity is if you were wearing socks and shoes, particles of which can get trapped in the wound.

Treatment

A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process to avoid complications.

It is recommended to see a podiatrist within 24 hours of a foot puncture wound to have the wound thoroughly evaluated and cleaned.

The doctor may numb the area, thoroughly clean inside and outside the wound, and monitor your progress. In some cases, x-rays may be ordered to determine whether something remains in the wound or if bone damage has occurred. Antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary. Tetanus shots are also administered on an as needed basis.

 

If you have suffered a puncture wound and live in the northern New Jersey area, call one of the offices of Innovative Foot and Ankle for an evaluation. Our doctors are located in Essex County, Bergen County, Hudson County and Union County.

Previous Article Why are Ballet Flats Bad for Your Feet? Ballet Flats are often women's shoe of choice when going for comfort and style. However, the lack of support and constrictive nature of these shoes [...]
Next Article Ball of Foot Pain Many of our patients come in complaining of pain in the ball of the foot. Medically, this is referred to as "Metatarsalgia". Causes Capsulitis Inflammation of [...]