Toe, Foot, And Ankle Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Is an object, such as a nail, embedded in your toe, foot, or ankle?

See significance of an object in your toe, foot, or ankle if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Did a metal object at high pressure, such as a nail from a nail gun, go through your shoe or boot and stick in your foot? Note: Do not try to remove the object. Seek medical evaluation.

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Did a metal object at high pressure, such as a nail from a nail gun, go through your shoe or boot and puncture your foot, but the object is no longer in your foot?

Yes

Did you step on an object, such as a sliver, needle, or nail, and you are unable to remove it from your foot?

Yes

Do you think an object is still in your foot?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	October 27, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer