Nail Injuries

• Nail Injuries Overview
• Nail Injuries Causes
• Nail Injuries Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Exams and Tests
• Nail Injuries Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Follow-up
• Prevention
• Outlook
• Multimedia
• Authors and Editors

Nail Injuries Overview

The fingernail is an important part of fingertip function. It provides support for the finger pad and improves sensation. The toenail functions in a similar manner in the foot.

Injuries to the nail can range from a bruise under the nail to separation of the nail from the nail bed. They can be complex wounds to repair. Permanent deformity to the nail can result, even after proper repair.

The nail is a complex structure involving three different layers.

• The nail bed (or matrix or plate) is underneath the nail and is responsible for nail growth and support.
  
  
• The nail itself is the hard substance on the back of the finger or toe.
  
  
• The eponychium (cuticle) and lateral nail folds (raised skin on the sides of the nail) are also part of the nail.