If you have a broken toe, here are the key steps to take for care and treatment:
Immediate Care
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured foot and stop any activity that causes pain. Keep the foot immobile as much as possible
- Ice: Apply ice wrapped in a towel or a cold pack (like frozen peas) to the toe for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours during the first couple of days to reduce swelling and pain. Do not apply ice directly to the skin to avoid frostbite
- Elevation: Keep your foot raised above heart level when sitting or lying down to help reduce swelling
Pain Management
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol to manage pain and inflammation
Protecting and Supporting the Toe
- Buddy taping: Tape the broken toe to the adjacent toe with some padding (cotton wool or gauze) between them to act as a splint. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight to avoid cutting off circulation
- Wear wide, comfortable shoes with stiff soles that do not squeeze or bend the toe to protect it while walking
When to Seek Medical Attention
Go to the emergency room if:
- The big toe is broken
- The toe is pointing at an odd angle or visibly deformed
- The bone is sticking out of the skin
- There was a snap, grinding, or popping noise at injury
- You experience numbness or tingling in the toe or foot
Medical professionals may need to perform X-rays, realign the bones (reduction), or in severe cases, perform surgery with pins or wires to properly heal the toe
Healing Time
- Broken toes generally heal within 4 to 6 weeks, but some cases may take longer depending on severity
Summary
- Rest and avoid weight-bearing
- Ice regularly with a barrier cloth
- Elevate the foot
- Buddy tape the toe with padding
- Take pain relief medication
- Wear protective footwear
- Seek medical care if the toe is severely injured or symptoms worsen
Following these steps will help reduce pain, swelling, and promote proper healing of a broken toe
