Nail Injuries
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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.
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Nail Injuries
Finger Infection Overview
Injury or infection to a finger or fingers is a common problem. Infection can range from mild to potentially serious. Often these infections start out small and are relatively easy to treat. Failure to properly treat these infections can result in permanent disability or loss of the finger.
Early recognition and proper treatment of the following main finger infections will help prevent most of the serious outcomes.
- Paronychia: A paronychia is an infection of the finger that involves the tissue at the edges of the fingernail. This infection is usually superficial and localized to the soft tissue and skin around the fingernail. This is the most common bacterial infection seen in the hand.
- Felon: A felon is an infection of the fingertip. This...
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Hand, Finger Nail and Tip Injuries »
As the terminal extension of the fingers and hand, the fingertips are the portions of the upper extremity through which we touch, feel, write, draw, and perform activities of daily living.
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