A broken toe may be a result from a variety of injuries such as a heavy object falling on it, or by stubbing it against a piece of furniture. Common symptoms can include immediate bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult to walk. Severe fractures may produce a toe that appears deformed, and immediate medical attention is often needed. If the break is mild, an effective treatment method is known as buddy taping. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it. This method can provide stability to the broken toe as the healing process occurs. It is beneficial to keep weight off of the toe as much as possible, and this can help to accelerate healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you speak with a chiropodist who can treat broken toes.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Cracking sound at the time of injury

• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe

• Difficulty walking

• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.