Yikes, I Broke My Toe! What Should I Do?

Catching your toe on a door frame or a piece of furniture—ouch!—is one of the most common ways our patients break their little toes. Dropping something heavy on them? That’s another big culprit.

A common myth we hear is, “Nothing can be done about a broken toe.” But is that really true? Keep reading to find out!

What Can Be Done for a Broken Toe?

We’re foot doctors, so of course, there are things that can be done to help your toe heal properly! Here’s what you need to know:

✔️ Rest and Elevation
Keeping your foot elevated and limiting movement can help reduce swelling and promote faster healing.

✔️ Buddy Taping or Splinting
Depending on the severity of the fracture, we may use buddy taping (taping your injured toe to the one next to it) or a splint to stabilize the toe and prevent excessive movement.

✔️ Pain Management
Ice, ice baby! Applying ice can reduce immediate swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help manage discomfort.

✔️ Footwear Modifications
Wearing stiff-soled shoes or a protective boot may be necessary to provide extra support while your toe heals. In some cases, a special walking shoe is recommended to limit motion and reduce pain.

✔️ Get a Diagnosis
Some fractures require more than just home care—especially if the toe is dislocated or the fracture is displaced. It’s always a good idea to get an x-ray and an evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Don’t Ignore a Broken Toe!

While many minor toe fractures heal on their own, not all breaks are the same. If you suspect you’ve broken your toe, schedule an appointment with us to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan. Proper care can prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery.