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How Does a Broken Toe Happen?

Tuesday, 14 August 2018 00:00

Many bones are located in the foot and they all work together to provide optimum balance necessary to effectively walk and run. If something heavy should fall on your toe or if you fall down, you may experience pain and discomfort due to a broken toe. You may notice the obvious symptoms, which may include bruising and swelling, or continued pain and throbbing. Research has shown the importance of having a proper diagnosis performed, which most likely will include having an X-ray taken. If a broken toe is confirmed, treatment should commence as quickly as possible. This may include taping the toe to the toe next to it, resetting the bone for more severe fractures, or undergoing surgery. Please consult with a podiatrist for advice on how to treat a broken toe.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Gary Prant from Arbor Foot Health Center. 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 Austin, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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