The most common causes of toe fractures are stubbing your toe (known medically as axial force) or by dropping something heavy on it. Symptoms of toe fractures include bruising, swelling, and throbbing pain. You likely will feel tenderness when you touch the site of the injury. The most common fractures are to the big toe. The big toe affects your balance, as well as your ability to walk and bear weight. A series of X-rays may be used to determine the site and severity of the break. A fractured big toe will usually be treated with a splint and rigid sole shoe to prevent joint movement. For the lesser toes, two or even three may be taped together with gauze in between to stabilize them, a process known as buddy taping. Some kind of open walking cast may also be used. It may take from three to six weeks for toe fractures to heal, or until point tenderness subsides. For help with a broken toe, or toes, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.  

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. 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 Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.