“A glass piece got into my foot. What should I do next?”

Wash the foot daily and keep the wound covered with a clean dressing (i.e. band-aid.) Increasing pain and redness are signs of infection. Thomas Granchi, MD, FACS

To prevent an infection after stepping on a piece of glass, first make sure to wash the area thoroughly with soap and water. When the area is dry and the bleeding is stopped, then apply a thin coat of anti-bacterial cream, such as Neosporin, Bacitracin, or Triple Antibiotic cream. It is then usually a good idea to apply a Band-Aid or dressing to the area to prevent additional dirt, dust, or debris from contaminating the wound site. Change the Band-Aid or dressing at least 1 to 2 times daily, and watch for any signs of infection, such as green/yellow drainage, pus, spreading redness/cellulitis, or red lines going away from the wound (a sign of infection of the arteries/veins around the wound).

I am glad you were able to get the piece of glass out! If the wound is very deep or you have any loss of sensation or function, you should go immediately to the ER. If there is no loss of sensation or resultant weakness from the injury and it doesn't look too deep, you should clean the wound and bandage it. You may also need a tetanus booster if it has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot. Contact your family doctor and get in to see them in the next week or so.

Best,

Dr. L

Depends on the severity. You may need to go to the ER. Otherwise, see a podiatrist or general surgeon for further evaluation.