Various Ways to Break a Toe

A mildly fractured toe may be treated by using the buddy taping method. Taping the broken toe to the toe next to it is generally successful in providing the necessary stability as the healing process occurs. There are several ways a toe can become broken. For instance, dropping a heavy object on it, jamming it into a piece of furniture, or if it is involved in an injury. The toe bones are small and located at the edge of the body, making them vulnerable to enduring a fracture. Common symptoms associated with this type of injury include bruising, swelling, and a toe that is difficult to walk on. A serious break is noticeable if the affected bone protrudes through the skin, and the toe may look deformed. After a proper diagnosis is performed, the correct treatment can begin. If the toe becomes numb or if there is an open wound, it is strongly suggested that immediate medical attention is sought. Broken toes are treated by a chiropodist and it is advised that you consult with this type of foot specialist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Cracking sound at the time of injury

• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe

• Difficulty walking

• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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