Broken Toe

A broken toe, or toe fracture, is a common injury. The bones in your toes are tiny and vulnerable, so they can break easily. Even though these bones are small, injuries to them can be quite painful. In addition, all the bones in your feet and toes work together when you walk. So, when you break one, it can affect how your feet function.

In most cases, broken toes will heal on their own with rest and some at-home care. But you should see a healthcare provider to evaluate your injury if pain or swelling are severe. More significant injuries may require further medical treatment. Although rare, this may include manipulation to realign your toe in your provider’s office or even surgery.

Types of toe fractures

Foot and ankle surgeons divide toe fractures into two categories: traumatic fractures and stress fractures.

• Traumatic fractures: A direct blow or impact to your toe can cause a traumatic fracture. Also called an acute fracture, this type can be displaced or nondisplaced. Displaced means the end of the bone has partially or completely separated, causing it to change position. Nondisplaced means the bone has a crack, but the end of it hasn’t separated.
• Stress fractures: Repetitive stress on your toe can cause a tiny hairline break called a stress fracture. While this type of fracture commonly affects athletes, health conditions and other factors can also cause them. You shouldn’t ignore a stress fracture. You’ll need proper medical attention for it to heal properly.

Healthcare providers also classify toe fractures as closed or open:

• Closed fracture: When your wound hasn’t broken through your skin, you have a closed fracture.
• Open fracture: When your wound breaks through your skin and extends down to your bone, you have an open fracture. This type can be serious because bacteria can enter the wound through the open skin and cause an infection in your bone.