Stepped on a Nail? What To Do for Pain & Potential Infection

Question
I had stepped on an a nail eariler today (4-24) and it did not hurt for a while so I kept walking on it.  By the end of the day it was very painfull.  It did not puncture far and it does not look infected.  What should I do to make the soreness go away or make it better, if there is one?

Answer
When the bottom of the foot gets punctured, there is a tough hide under the skin called the plantar fascia.  It has a lot of nerve endings in it and when the fascia gets inflamed from the injury, it really hurts.  Using ice, (ice cubes in a baggie, on for 20 minutes, off for 2 hours) helps, also using Alleve, 2 twice a day or Advil 4 pills three times a day.  Some people need stronger pain meds.  ALso, make sure your tetanus shot status is up to date.  If it gets red and starts draining junk, you may need antibiotics for it.

Hope this helps...