The five toes that are part of each foot play a significant role in maintaining balance in the body. Patients who have broken their toes may often experience difficulty in walking. Broken toes can occur as a result of stubbing one or more toes against a piece of furniture, or if a heavy object should fall on them. The symptoms that are often associated with this type of injury can consist of immediate pain and discomfort, bruising, swelling, and the toe may be difficult to move. Moderate relief can be found when the foot is elevated, and this may help to alleviate a portion of the swelling. Some patients find it beneficial to tape the affected toe to the one next to it, and this may help to provide the support that is needed as the healing process takes place. If you feel you have fractured your toe, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward the treatment that is best 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 one of our podiatrists from Florida Foot & Ankle Group, P.A.. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Debary, Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.