A broken toe can make simple movements painful, especially while standing or walking. The injury happens when one of the small bones in a toe cracks or breaks. A hard impact, like stubbing a toe against furniture, can cause a sudden fracture. Dropping a heavy object on the foot can also break a toe. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, and bruising. The toe might look crooked or become tender to the touch. Some people hear a cracking sound when the injury occurs. Pain can ease after several hours, but that does not mean the bone is unharmed. Even if you can walk, your toe could still be broken.
Not every foot fracture results from a single accident. Stress fractures are tiny cracks caused by repeated pressure on a bone. They can develop when someone increases running activity too quickly. Changes in foot structure or weakened bones can also raise the risk. Stress fractures can cause pain that returns when standing or moving. Swelling might appear without bruising. A break in one of the longer bones behind the toes can create similar discomfort. Without proper treatment, a fracture can heal in the wrong position. This can lead to lasting pain, difficulty fitting shoes, or arthritis near the injured joint. Getting an accurate diagnosis helps prevent these problems.
A podiatrist can examine the injured toe, check its position, and determine whether an X-ray is appropriate. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the break. A podiatrist can use a splint to keep the toe stable while the bone heals. For some fractures, a stiff-soled shoe or protective walking boot helps limit unwanted movement. Taping the injured toe to a neighboring toe is suitable in certain cases, but it can cause problems in others. Your podiatrist can monitor healing and explain when normal activities can safely resume. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Amir Shalev, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
