The best way to treat a cut on your foot

If you get a cut or a scrape on your foot, it is important to follow a few simple rules in order for the cut to heal.  The first thing you want to do is to make sure the cut is clean.  Inspect the cut and make sure there is no dirt or debris within the skin; if there is, be sure to clean it with soap (antibacterial soap such as dishsoap or handsoap is preferred) and warm water.   If it is bleeding, then apply a clean washcloth or paper towel with pressure until the bleeding stops.  If bleeding continues after 10-15 minutes, it is important to contact our office or procede to the closest emergency room.  Then, apply an over the counter antibiotic ointment and a bandaid.  Our office recommends Amerigel wound gel, which promotes a healing environment to the wound.  With proper care, you will slowly see the wound scab over the next few days.  If the wound after a few days appears itchy, more red, or has drainage coming from it, then you should have it seen by one of our doctors to determine if you have a localized infection.  If so, it may need extensive wound care with other products and modalities that our doctors may offer, or you may even need an antibiotic. If it is along the nail bed, it may be due to an ingrown nail, which needs immediate attention.  So if you have a tricky cut or break in skin that is not getting better, make an appointment with one of our doctors and have it checked.