Broken toes occur as a result of trauma to the affected toe from situations such as stubbing the toe, dropping something heavy on it, or injuring it while playing a sport. The first step to recovering from a broken toe is recognition.  Unlike other toe injuries, a broken toe will typically cause immediate, severe pain that does not go away for a prolonged period of time. You may also sometimes hear the bone break at the time of injury. Other symptoms of a broken toe include throbbing pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, difficulty bearing weight, or the toe sticking out in an unnatural position. If you have any of these symptoms, a podiatrist can examine your toe and order an X-ray, which is used to diagnose the broken toe bone. Treatment options for broken toes will vary based on the severity of the break, but may include stabilizing or immobilizing the broken toe, resting and icing it, wearing a cast, or surgery. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gary J. Kaiserman, DPM from Achilles Footcare Center. 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 offices located in Forest Lane and West Kiest Boulevard Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.