People who have endured a broken toe may understand how it can hinder accomplishing daily activities. It can happen as a result from dropping a heavy object on it, or by jamming it into a piece of furniture. The small bones that exist in toes can be more susceptible to becoming broken and this is especially true for the pinky toe. Common symptoms that many patients experience during a broken toe can consist of bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult to walk. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which generally involves having an X-ray taken, the proper healing methods can begin. If the fracture is mild, buddy taping may be an effective form of treatment. This is done by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it, which can be successful in providing the necessary support to improve the affected toes stability. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Don A. Shumway, DPM from Arizona. 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 Snowflake, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.