Puncture wounds are a common form of minor trauma in the pediatric population. Although they are painful, these wounds usually heal easily and do not require medical attention. Complications of puncture wounds include retained foreign bodies and secondary infections. The most common organisms to cause secondary infections are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus species. Additionally, plantar puncture wounds are at risk for anaerobic infections, including those organisms likely seeded from the soil, a foreign body, or shoe. Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection can cause invasive, debilitating disease, such as osteochondritis and osteomyelitis.

Physical examination should be performed, looking for changes in sensation or motor function, erythema, swelling, and increased warmth, which suggests injury or infection. Initial management includes irrigation and close inspection for a retained foreign body. If there is high degree of suspicion for a foreign body and it cannot be easily visualized, radiographic studies and possible surgical exploration may be indicated.