Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

Definition and Causes of a Broken Toe

A broken toe occurs when one of the bones in the toe is fractured due to excessive force or impact. This type of injury is common and can range from a small crack to a complete break. The most frequent cause of a broken toe is trauma, such as stubbing the toe against a hard object or dropping something heavy on it. Athletes and active individuals are more prone to this injury due to the physical demands of sports and activities that involve running or jumping. Other causes include accidents, falls, or even repetitive stress over time. Symptoms of a broken toe include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. In some cases, the toe may appear misaligned or deformed. Proper diagnosis through an X-ray is important to determine the severity of the fracture and ensure appropriate treatment. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can begin the correct treatment for proper healing.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Howard Horowitz from Bowie Foot & Ankle . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bowie, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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