Broken toes are generally very painful and can cause a great deal of discomfort when trying to go about your daily routine. Those who have broken their toes often recall experiencing pain and swelling as the first signs of something gone wrong. After some time has passed, you may also notice that the affected area has stiffened or has turned a bluish color. The easiest way to tell if a toe has been broken is to look for any deformities, such as a bend in the toe, or if the toe is sticking out in an unusual manner. If you feel you have broken your toe, it is advised that you stay off your feet as much as possible to prevent furthering the damage. Some patients have also found the technique of “buddy taping” helpful. This consists of taping the deformed toe to the toe next to it, in an effort to hold the deformed toe in the correct positioning. For a proper diagnosis and an advised treatment plan, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible.
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. Kennedy Legel from Advanced Foot & Ankle Care Specialists. 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 Dallas, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
