What is a Foreign Body Foot Injury?

Foot injuries are common at any age, especially if feet are bare, wearing only socks, or otherwise unprotected. A shard of glass, splinter, nail, thorn, or other foreign body can cause injury and become stuck in the foot, simply by stepping on it.

When to Seek Medical Treatment

This type of injury can sometimes be treated at home by soaking the foot in warm water to help reduce inflammation and soften the skin, then removing the object with clean tweezers.

  • If the foreign body is deeply embedded within the foot, excruciatingly painful, or not easily removed, seek medical treatment.
  • If you have diabetes, the risk of developing severe complications from even a small wound is extremely serious. See your doctor immediately.
  • Bacteria from the foreign body may cause infection. If the area is red, streaking, swollen, warm to touch, or contains pus, you may need antibiotics and additional care for the wound. See your healthcare provider immediately.
  • If you haven’t had a tetanus shot within the last ten years, see your healthcare provider.

Treatment for Foreign Body in the Foot

Your podiatrist is experienced in removing foreign bodies from the foot. Specific treatment will depend on the type of object, depth of penetration, and severity of wound. If the foreign body is deeply embedded, your foot may be anesthetized and a brief, in-office surgery may be needed to remove the object. Your physician will discuss the procedure with you, as well as any necessary antibiotics or tetanus booster.