Full Answer
How do you heal a broken little toe?
Broken little toe, or a broken toe in general, is a fairly common injury caused by hitting the toe on something, dropping a heavy object on it or if someone stomps on it during an intense game of basketball (I`ve included this example because that is exactly what happened to …
What is the best remedy for a broken little toe?
Dec 15, 2003 · The preferred splinting technique is to buddy tape the affected toe to an adjacent toe ( Figure 7). 4 Treatment should continue until point tenderness is …
How do you treat a big toe fracture?
Traumatic fractures (also called acute fractures) are caused by a direct blow or impact — like seriously stubbing your toe. Traumatic fractures can be displaced or nondisplaced. If the fracture is displaced, the bone is broken in such a way that it has changed in position (dislocated). Treatment of a traumatic fracture depends on the location ...
How to bear weight after a broken foot?
Toe and Forefoot Fractures Treatment How is a metatarsal stress fracture treated? Primary treatment for stress fractures is rest and staying off the foot, stopping activities that resulted in the fracture and substituting with activities that do …
How is an impacted fracture treated?
Treatment Options for Impaction Fractures Treating an impaction fraction involves more than simply wearing a cast or splint. Surgery is often needed in order to separate the two fragments of bone. Pins, rods, or other surgical hardware may be used to provide support and keep the two fragments separated.
How long does it take for a pinky toe to heal from a fracture?
Healing of a broken toe may take 6–8 weeks. A person may need to have their broken toe buddy taped to an adjacent one. Wearing a stiff-soled shoe can also help, as can using crutches to help keep weight off of the toe while it heals. Rarely, a person may need to wear a cast to keep the foot immobile.Jun 17, 2020
Can I walk With little toe fracture?
If the little toe (pinky toe) is injured you usually will still be able to walk. Immediate complications of a broken toe include nail injury (subungual hematoma) or open (compound) fracture, in which the broken bone in a toe fracture protrudes through the skin.
Do doctors do anything for a broken little toe?
If the broken fragments of your bone don't fit snugly together, your doctor may need to manipulate the pieces back into their proper positions (reduction). Doctors can usually do this without cutting open your skin. Ice or an injected anesthetic is used to numb your toe.Nov 3, 2020
Will walking on a broken toe make it worse?
Although it may be possible to move and walk on your broken toe, you should avoid doing so as this can lead to even greater damage and prolonged healing time.
Should a broken toe still hurt after 2 weeks?
Your toe is likely to be tender and swollen, even after a few weeks. You'll likely need to avoid running, playing sports, or walking long distances for one to two months after your injury. Recovery time can be longer if the break is in one of the metatarsals.
Do you get a boot for a broken toe?
Doctors will first recommend either a walking boot or a cast, along with a toe plate, for around 2–3 weeks. They will then recommend a rigid-sole shoe for 3–4 weeks.
What does a fractured toe look like?
Broken Toe Symptoms After the injury, pain, swelling, or stiffness can occur. Bruising of the skin around the toe may also be noticeable. The toe may not look normal, and it may even look bent or deformed if the broken bone is out of place.Aug 16, 2021
Should I go to the doctor for a broken pinky toe?
If you think you broke your toe, it's best to have your doctor look at it. Even though you can often treat it yourself, a broken toe can sometimes lead to more serious problems, like infection, arthritis, or long-term foot pain.Jul 8, 2020
How long should I buddy tape a broken toe?
Never tape the toes together skin-to-skin. Your broken toe may need to be buddy-taped for 2 to 4 weeks to heal. Rest and protect your toe. Do not walk on it until you can do so without too much pain.
What does it mean when your pinky toe hurts?
Stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on it, hitting it while playing a sport, or wearing tight shoes can all cause pinky toe pain. Common causes of pinky toe pain may include a toe fracture, in which the toe bone is fully broken, or a stress fracture, in which the bone has one or more tiny cracks.May 24, 2021
How do you wrap a broken toe at home?
How to buddy tape a broken toePut a small piece of cotton or gauze between the toes that are taped together. ... Using as little tape as necessary, loosely tape the broken toe to the toe next to it.If the toes are taped too tightly it can cause additional swelling and may cut off circulation to the injured toe.
What to do if you have a fractured toe?
The uninjured toe acts like a splint. Always put some gauze or felt in between toes before taping them together to prevent skin irritation. Wearing a stiff-bottomed shoe.
What to take for a broken toe?
You can usually manage pain from a broken toe with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers if the pain from your fracture is more severe.
What to check for in a physical exam?
During the physical exam, your doctor will check for tender areas in your toes. Your doctor will also check the skin around your injury to make sure it's intact and that the toe is still receiving adequate blood flow and nerve signals.
How to reduce swelling in foot?
Elevation and ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Prop your foot up when possible so that your injury is higher than your heart. If you use ice, wrap it in a towel so that it doesn't make direct contact with your skin, and only apply it for about 15 minutes at a time, taking a break of at least 20 minutes between icing sessions.
How to write a medical list?
You may want to write a list that includes: 1 Detailed descriptions of your symptoms 2 A short explanation of how the injury occurred 3 Information about other medical problems you've had 4 All the medications and dietary supplements you take 5 Questions you want to ask the doctor
What is the complication of a fractured toe?
A common complication of toe fractures is persistent pain and a decreased tolerance for activity. Pain that persists longer than a few months may indicate malunion, which may limit a patient's future activities significantly. Toe fractures, especially intra-articular fractures, can result in degenerative joint disease, and osteomyelitis is a potential complication of open fractures.
Why do you need referral for a fractured toe?
Because of the first toe's role in weight bearing, balance, and pedal motion, fractures of this toe require referral much more often than other toe fractures. Deformity, decreased range of motion, and degenerative joint disease in this toe can impair a patient's functional ability.
What causes a toe to swell?
Most toe fractures are caused by an axial force (e.g., a stubbed toe) or a crushing injury (e.g., from a falling object). Joint hyperextension, a less common mechanism, may cause spiral or avulsion fractures. Common presenting symptoms include bruising, swelling, and throbbing pain that worsens with a dependent position, although this type of pain also may occur with an isolated subungual hematoma. Although tendon injuries may accompany a toe fracture, they are uncommon.
How many phalanges are there in the first toe?
The first toe has only two phalanges; the second through the fifth toes generally have three, but the fifth toe sometimes can have only two ( Figure 1). Flexor and extensor tendons insert at the proximal portions of the middle and distal phalanges. These tendons may avulse small fragments of bone from the phalanges; they also can be injured when a toe is fractured. Abductor, interosseus, and adductor muscles insert at the proximal aspects of each proximal phalanx. The pull of these muscles occasionally exacerbates fracture displacement. Sesamoid bones generally are present within flexor tendons in the first toe ( Figure 1, top) and are found less commonly in the flexor tendons of other toes. In children, a physis (i.e., cartilaginous growth center) is present in the proximal part of each phalanx ( Figure 2).
Is a referral required for fractures of the lesser toes?
Although referral rarely is required for patients with fractures of the lesser toes, referral is recommended for patients with open fractures, fracture-dislocations ( Figure 5), displaced intra-articular fractures, and fractures that are difficult to reduce. Referral is recommended for children with fractures involving the physis, except nondisplaced Salter-Harris type I and type II fractures ( Figure 6). 4
Where are the sesamoid bones found?
Sesamoid bones generally are present within flexor tendons in the first toe ( Figure 1, top) and are found less commonly in the flexor tendons of other toes. In children, a physis (i.e., cartilaginous growth center) is present in the proximal part of each phalanx ( Figure 2).
Can displaced phalanx fractures be managed?
Most displaced fractures of the lesser toes can be managed by family physicians if there are no indications for referral. Although adverse outcomes can occur with toe fractures, 3 disability from displaced phalanx fractures is rare. 5
How to treat a fractured toe?
Treatment for traumatic fractures depends on the break itself and may include these options: Rest. Sometimes rest is all that is needed to treat a traumatic fracture of the toe. Splinting.
How to treat metatarsal fracture?
Treatment of metatarsal fractures depends on the type and extent of the fracture and may include: Rest. Sometimes rest is the only treatment needed to promote healing of a stress or traumatic fracture of a metatarsal bone. Avoid the offending activity.
What are the bones of the foot?
Toe and Metatarsal Fractures (Broken Toes) The structure of the foot is complex, consisting of bones, muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. Of the 28 bones in the foot, 19 are toe bones (phalanges) and metatarsal bones (the long bones in the midfoot). Fractures of the toe and metatarsal bones are common and require evaluation by a specialist.
What is a trauma fracture?
Traumatic fractures (also called acute fractures) are caused by a direct blow or impact, such as seriously stubbing your toe. Traumatic fractures can be displaced or nondisplaced. If the fracture is displaced, the bone is broken in such a way that it has changed in position (malpositioned). Signs and symptoms of a traumatic fracture include:
Can a doctor treat a broken foot?
Some people say that “the doctor can’t do anything for a broken bone in the foot.”. This is usually not true. In fact, if a fractured toe or metatarsal bone is not treated correctly, serious complications may develop. For example:
Why do athletes get stress fractures?
Stress fractures often afflict athletes who, for example, too rapidly increase their running mileage. They can also be caused by an abnormal foot structure, deformities or osteoporosis. Improper footwear may also lead to stress fractures. Stress fractures should not be ignored.
What happens if you break your metatarsal bone?
Breaks in the metatarsal bones may be either stress or traumatic fractures. Certain kinds of fractures of the metatarsal bones present unique challenges. For example, sometimes a fracture of the first metatarsal bone (behind the big toe) can lead to arthritis.
How to treat a broken toe?
How is a toe fracture treated? Buddy tape, elastic bandage, or a splint may be used to support your toe in its correct position. Buddy tape means your broken toe and the toe next to it are taped together. A support device such as a cane, crutches, walking boot, or hard-soled shoe may be needed.
How to heal a toe?
Return to normal activities as directed. Apply ice on your toe for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover it with a towel before you put it on your toe . Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
What is closed reduction surgery?
Closed reduction is used to move your bones back into place without surgery. Surgery may be needed if the bone is out of place or the toe joint is damaged. Wires, pins, or other hardware may be used to keep your bone in place while it heals.
What does it mean when your toe is bent?
Pain, redness, swelling, or bruising. Not being able to bend or move your toe. Not being able to walk or put weight on your toe. Toe is bent at an angle that is not normal.
Can you refuse treatment?
You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
How to reduce swelling in toe?
Elevate your toe above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your toe on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
Can you get contrast liquid on an MRI?
An x-ray may show your toe fracture. A MRI may show a stress fracture or ligament damage. You may be given contrast liquid to help an injury show up better in pictures. Tell a healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal.
What causes a fracture in the toe?
Fractures can result from a direct blow to the foot —such as accidentally kicking something hard or dropping a heavy object on your toes. They can also result from the overuse and repetitive stress that comes with participating in high-impact sports like running and basketball. Although fracturing a bone in your toe or forefoot can be quite ...
What is a fractured toe called?
Fractures can also develop after repetitive activity, rather than a single injury. This is called a "stress fracture."
How many bones are there in the forefoot?
The forefoot has 5 metatarsal bones and 14 phalanges (toe bones). There are 3 phalanges in each toe—except for the first toe, which usually has only 2. All the bones in the forefoot are designed to work together when you walk. A fracture, or break, in any of these bones can be painful and impact how your foot functions.
Which bone is the most likely to fracture?
The proximal phalanx is the toe bone that is closest to the metatarsals. Because it is the longest of the toe bones, it is the most likely to fracture. A fractured toe may become swollen, tender and discolored. If the bone is out of place, your toe will appear deformed.
Can you bear weight on a broken toe?
Most broken toes can be treated symptomatically. For several days it may be painful to bear weight on your injured toe. As your pain subsides, however, you can begin to bear weight as you are comfortable . During this time, it may be helpful to wear a wider than normal shoe.
What is the difference between open and closed fractures?
Fractures can also be divided into "closed fractures" where the skin is not broken and "open fractures" where the skin is broken and the wound extends down to the bone. Open fractures are particularly serious because, once the skin is broken, bacteria can enter the wound and cause infection in the bone.
How long does it take for a stress fracture to heal?
In many cases, a stress fracture cannot be seen until several weeks later when it has actually started to heal and a type of healing bone called "callus" appears around the fracture site.
Different types of broken or fractured toes
Toe fractures, or broken toes, come in all shapes and sizes. The wide spectrum of possibilities include the following: a non-displaced hairline crack, a chip fracture, a displaced and angulated fracture with a crooked toe, a break into a joint of the toe, an open fracture that can penetrate through the skin, a transverse unstable fracture, etc.
Treating a broken toe
The fracture pattern determines the right treatment: buddy splinting to an adjacent toe (and the angle of the fracture tells which toe to splint it to), stiff soled shoe vs boot, if a regular shoe is okay, if the toe needs to be reduced (numbed up and manipulated straight and then splinted), etc.
How to treat a fractured toe?
Treatment for traumatic fractures depends on the break itself and may include these options: Rest. Sometimes rest is all that is needed to treat a traumatic fracture of the toe. Splinting.
What to do if you have a broken toe?
Use of a postoperative shoe or bootwalker is also helpful. “Buddy taping” the fractured toe to another toe is sometimes appropriate, but in other cases it may be harmful. Surgery. If the break is badly displaced or if the joint is affected, surgery may be necessary.
Why do athletes get stress fractures?
Stress fractures often afflict athletes who, for example, too rapidly increase their running mileage. They can also be caused by an abnormal foot structure, deformities or osteoporosis. Improper footwear may also lead to stress fractures. Stress fractures should not be ignored.
What are the bones of the foot?
Toe and Metatarsal Fractures (Broken toes) The structure of the foot is complex, consisting of bones, muscles, tendons and other soft tissues. Of the 28 bones in the foot, 19 are toe bones (phalanges) and metatarsal bones (the long bones in the midfoot). Fractures of the toe and metatarsal bones are common and require evaluation by a specialist.
Where is the Jones fracture?
Another type of break, called a Jones fracture, occurs at the base of the fifth metatarsal bone (behind the little toe). It is often misdiagnosed as an ankle sprain, and misdiagnosis can have serious consequences since sprains and fractures require different treatments.
Can a doctor treat a broken foot?
Some people say that “the doctor can’t do anything for a broken bone in the foot.”. This is usually not true. In fact, if a fractured toe or metatarsal bone is not treated correctly, serious complications may develop. For example:
What is a fracture in the bone?
A fracture is a break in the bone. Fractures can be divided into two categories: traumatic fractures and stress fractures. Traumatic fractures (also called acute fractures) are caused by a direct blow or impact, such as seriously stubbing your toe. Traumatic fractures can be displaced or nondisplaced.
Diagnosis
Treatment
- Medications
You can usually manage pain from a broken toe with over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others), naproxen sodium (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). Your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers if the pain from your fracture is more severe. - Reduction
If the broken fragments of your bone don't fit snugly together, your doctor may need to manipulate the pieces back into their proper positions (reduction). Doctors can usually do this without cutting open your skin. Ice or an injected anesthetic is used to numb your toe.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Elevation and ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Prop your foot up when possible so that your injury is higher than your heart. If you use ice, wrap it in a towel so that it doesn't make direct contact with your skin, and only apply it for about 15 minutes at a time, taking a break of at least 20 minutes between icing sessions.
Preparing For Your Appointment
- While you may initially consult your family physician, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in orthopedic surgery.