Breaking a toe can occur when it strikes a hard object or when something heavy lands on the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight, and the toe may look angled. A podiatrist determines whether the injury is a fracture or a sprain through examination and imaging, such as X-rays. Treatment of a broken toe focuses on stabilizing the bone so it heals in proper alignment. This may involve medical splinting to a neighboring toe, protective footwear, or a walking cast to limit motion and reduce joint stress. More severe fractures with displaced fragments or joint involvement may require surgical repair using small pins or screws. Proper care helps prevent long-term complications like stiffness, arthritis, or chronic walking pain. A podiatrist also monitors healing and guides the return to activity. If you have pain from a broken toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Palm Beach Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Boynton Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and West Palm Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
