A broken toe can cause significant pain and disrupt daily activities. Common symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected toe. Additionally, individuals may experience tenderness and sharp pain at the site of the injury. In severe cases, the toe may appear misaligned or deformed. Several factors can contribute to a broken toe, including trauma from stubbing it or dropping a heavy object on the foot. Accidents during sports activities or sudden impacts from falls can also result in toe fractures. Additionally, underlying conditions such as osteoporosis, which weakens bones, can increase the risk of fractures even from minor trauma. Poorly fitting footwear, particularly shoes that are too tight or narrow, can exacerbate the risk of toe injuries. If you have any of the above symptoms that indicate a broken toe, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can confirm the diagnosis and offer appropriate treatment options.

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 one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians 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 offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.