Broken Toe

Diagnosis of a Broken Toe

• During the physical exam, your healthcare provider will:

  • Check for tenderness in the toe.

  • Inspect the skin around the injury to ensure it’s not cut and that blood flow and nerve signals are intact.

• X-rays of the foot are usually needed to confirm a broken toe.

Treatment of a Broken Toe

Medications

• Pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter medicines such as:

  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB)

  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve)

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

• Severe pain may require prescription painkillers.

Reduction

• If the broken bone pieces don’t fit together, your provider may perform a reduction:

  • Done without cutting the skin.

  • Ice or a local anesthetic may be used to numb the toe.

Keeping the Toe from Moving

• Immobilization is key for healing. Options include:

  • Buddy taping: Taping the injured toe to a neighboring toe, using gauze or felt between them to prevent skin irritation.

  • Stiff-bottomed shoe: Provides support and prevents movement while allowing room for swelling.

  • Casting: A walking cast may be used if the bone pieces won’t stay in place.

Surgery

• In some cases, a surgeon may use pins, plates, or screws to hold the bones in place during healing.