WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
When you break a toe, fractures can occur in one or more of the bones. Healing usually takes 3 to 6 weeks. If you still have pain at this time, you may need an x-ray to see how the toe is healing.
Causes
These injuries are almost always the result of an accident or fall.
Signs/Symptoms
It will probably hurt to walk. Other possible symptoms include swelling, pain, bruising, bleeding, weakness, numbness, or tingling of the injured toe. Because the break may move some bones out of place, the toe may look misshapen.
Care
Your doctor may order an x-ray and may give you a splint or a cast shoe to keep the bones of the toe in place. A cast shoe should make it easier to walk. Surgery may be necessary if you have a bad fracture. If you scratched or tore some skin, you may also need a tetanus shot.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
* If your toes are taped together, leave them that way until your doctor says you can remove the tape, or until your follow-up examination. You can change the tape after bathing. Always use a small piece of cotton between the toes when taping them together.
* To reduce swelling, keep your foot lifted above the level of your heart as much as possible. Lie down and prop your foot up on some pillows.
* Apply ice to the injury for 15 to 20 minutes each hour for the first 1 to 2 days. Put the ice in a plastic bag and place a thin towel between the bag of ice and your cast.
* Your doctor may have you wear a cast shoe if your foot is very swollen. If not, wear sturdy, supportive shoes.
* You may use over-the-counter medicines to relieve the pain. Always take medications exactly as directed.
* If you are given a tetanus shot, your arm may get swollen, red, and warm to the touch at the site of the shot. This is a normal reaction to the medicine.
Call Your Doctor If...
* The pain or swelling gets worse.
* The injured toe is cold when the others are warm.
* The toe becomes very swollen or red.
* The toe turns white or blue.
Seek Care Immediately If...
* The toe feels numb or tingly.
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