You can injure your toe by dropping a heavy object on it or simply by accidentally slamming or bumping it into another object. You may not realize it's broken until the pain does not subside.
If you have symptoms of a broken toe such as pain or swelling that last for more than a few days, your toe may be broken. Contact a podiatrist for treatment.
Signs of a Broken Toe
There are signs to watch out for that can indicate that you may have a broken toe such as:
- Discoloration
- Swelling
- Trouble walking or bearing weight
- Pain when wearing shoes
Getting Treatment
If you think your toe is broken, there are several things to do in addition to contacting your podiatrist. The following can help with pain and swelling that occur with an injured toe:
- Rest
- Ice
- Elevation
- Over-the-counter pain medication
If pain and symptoms last for more than a few days, you should consult with your podiatrist for an evaluation. If you think your toe is broken, do not attempt to buddy tape or treat your toe at home since you could cause the toe to not properly heal and be misaligned.
Other potential complications associated with avoiding treatment for a broken toe include:
- Infection. If you have an open cut or sore near the broken toe, you can be at risk of developing an infection. This is serious for those with a condition such as diabetes.
- Arthritis. Untreated fractures can cause arthritis over time. This can affect the toe that was broken or extend into the joints of other toes.
- Long-term pain. Chronic pain can result in the toe that was broken and worsen over time.
- Foot deformity. Bones that do not heal properly can cause a deformity to form. This can lead to difficulty in wearing shoes and cause pain.
- Future injury. Broken toes can affect your balance which puts you at a higher risk for another injury.
Contact a Podiatrist for Help
If you think that your toe is broken, contact Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry for an evaluation. We offer a free initial consultation and can recommend treatments for your specific needs. To schedule an appointment, fill out our contact form online or call our office at 301-515-FEET.
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