If this is a recent occurrance, you should soak it in cold water a couple of times a day for the first week to help with any swelling or pain. Apply peroxide to it to keep it dried out and to help prevent infection. To keep from ripping the nail plate even further, tie a piece of plain gauze on the toe to protect it. Don't cover with bandaids as they allow too much moisture to build up in the nail and under the nail. Wear shoes that allow your toes enough room to move so they do not put pressure on the nail.

When the pain has subsided enough and the skin under the nail has healed, the nail plate may turn loose from the nail bed. When this happens, try to cut it as sort as you can and keep it short until the new nail grows forward. As it grows, it will push the damaged portion off the free edge. Toe nails grow very slow, so it can take from 6 months to a year depending on your genetics.