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.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. George Yarnell from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansdowne, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.