Broken Toe (cont.)

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What is the outlook for a broken toe?

  • Talk to the doctor to schedule an appointment to have the broken toe evaluated to make sure it is healing properly. Call a doctor or go to an emergency department if any problems or complications develop before the scheduled appointment.

  • Broken toes usually take about six weeks to heal. If problems last longer than six weeks, another X-ray may be needed, or the injury should be rechecked by the doctor to evaluate how the bone is healing.

  • Simple toe fractures usually heal well with no problems. However, a severe fracture or a fracture that goes into a joint is at risk for developing arthritis, pain, stiffness, and possibly even a deformity.

Broken Toe At-A-Glance

  • Broken toes are often caused by trauma or injury. Prolonged repetitive movements can cause a type of broken toe called a stress or hairline fracture.

  • Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, or stiffness, bruising, deformity, and difficultly walking if the big toe is broken.

  • Possible complications of a broken toe include nail injury, compound fracture, infection, deformity, or arthritis.

  • Seek immediate medical care if you suspect an open fracture of the toe; if there is bleeding; cold, numb, or tingling sensation; or blue or gray color to the injured area.

  • A broken toe is diagnosed with a medical examination, which may include X-rays.

  • To help decrease pain and swelling in a broken toe, elevate the foot, ice the injury, and stay off the foot.

  • Depending on the severity of the fracture, the toe may need to be put back into place (reduced), and some compound toe fractures may require surgery.

  • Pain from a broken toe can usually be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.

  • Buddy taping can be used to help splint a fractured toe.

  • Most broken toes heal without complications in six weeks.

Last Editorial Review: 2/19/2009


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