Fractured Toe Specialist

What causes a fractured toe?

The bones of your toes work together to help you walk, run, and stand. Due to their structure and position, toes are at risk for injuries during all types of activity.

Fractures can result from a direct injury to the toe if you trip over an object or drop something heavy on your foot. You can also develop a fracture in your toe from repetitive stress common with sports participation or running activities, a condition known as a stress fracture.

Generally, there are two types of fractures. A non-displaced fracture occurs when the toe bone cracks, but the ends remain together. In a displaced fracture, the ends of the bones become separated, either partially or completely.

You can also experience either an open or closed fracture. A closed fracture means the skin doesn’t break as a result of the fracture, while an open fracture causes a deep wound that goes to the bone.

What are the symptoms of a fractured toe?

If your fractured toe results from an injury, you may feel immediate pain and notice the toe begin to swell. Bruising is also a common sign of a fracture.

If you develop a gradual fracture due to stress, you may find it increasingly difficult to move without pain and may even struggle to put weight on the affected toe.

Open fractures will bleed and may expose your toe bone. It’s important you seek immediate treatment for this type of fracture to prevent deformities and infection.

What treatments are available for a fractured toe?

In many cases, treating a fractured toe requires limiting activities to keep the weight off your toes. Rest and ice therapy can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Depending on the location of your fracture, your physician may recommend taping the affected toe to the neighboring toe to provide stability and reduce pain.

If you have a displaced fracture, your Miklos Foot and Ankle Specialists physician can provide a local anesthetic to keep you comfortable, so they can properly reposition your toe bone.

In the event you have an open fracture, you may need a minor surgical procedure to realign the fractured bone and close the wound.

If pain from a fractured toe is interfering with your mobility, learn more about available treatment options by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.