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Broken Toe
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
When you break a toe, fractures can occur in one or more
of the bones. Healing usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. If you still
have pain at this time, you may need an x-ray to see how the
toe is healing.
Causes
These injuries are almost always
the result of an accident or fall.
Signs/Symptoms
It will probably hurt to walk.
Other possible symptoms include swelling, pain, bruising,
bleeding, weakness, numbness, or tingling of the injured toe.
Because the break may move some bones out of place, the toe may
look misshapen.
Care
Your doctor may order an x-ray
and may give you a splint or a cast shoe to keep the bones of
the toe in place. A cast shoe should make it easier to walk.
Surgery may be necessary if you have a bad fracture. If you
scratched or tore some skin, you may also need a tetanus
shot.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
If your toes are taped together, leave them that way
until your doctor says you can remove the tape, or until
your follow-up examination. You can change the tape after
bathing. Always use a small piece of cotton between the
toes when taping them together.
-
To reduce swelling, keep your foot lifted above the
level of your heart as much as possible. Lie down and prop
your foot up on some pillows.
-
Apply ice to the injury for 15 to 20 minutes each
hour for the first 1 to 2 days. Put the ice in a plastic
bag and place a thin towel between the bag of ice and your
cast.
-
Your doctor may have you wear a cast shoe if your
foot is very swollen. If not, wear sturdy, supportive
shoes.
-
You may use over-the-counter medicines to relieve the
pain. Always take medications exactly as
directed.
-
If you are given a tetanus shot, your arm may get
swollen, red, and warm to the touch at the site of the
shot. This is a normal reaction to the
medicine.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
The pain or swelling gets worse.
-
The injured toe is cold when the others are
warm.
-
The toe becomes very swollen or
red.
-
The toe turns white or blue.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
The toe feels numb or tingly.
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