Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
I stepped on a new drywall screw last night that penetrated the bottom of my foot and estimate that it penetrated up to 2 to 3 centimeters. I have had a tetanus shot in the last 10 years. This morning, it is sore to walk on it. Should I initiate antibiotic therapy with Cephalexin?
Hello and welcome to Ask A Doctor. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. If the nail penetration was 2-3 centimeters into your foot, there is a very good chance that it entered a bone. If your bone is infected and not treated properly, it could become damaged as it heals and result in long-term pain. It is dangerous to self-prescribe medication. It will be wise for you to be seen by your primary care physician or go to the nearest Emergency Room AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. The doctor who evaluates you might want to obtain imaging studies and blood tests. Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be happy to help. Arnold Zedd, M.D.
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How Can A Painful Wound On The Foot Be Treated?
Hello and welcome to Ask A Doctor. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. If the nail penetration was 2-3 centimeters into your foot, there is a very good chance that it entered a bone. If your bone is infected and not treated properly, it could become damaged as it heals and result in long-term pain. It is dangerous to self-prescribe medication. It will be wise for you to be seen by your primary care physician or go to the nearest Emergency Room AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. The doctor who evaluates you might want to obtain imaging studies and blood tests. Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions, I will be happy to help. Arnold Zedd, M.D.