If you’ve ever stubbed your toe on the corner of your bed frame or dropped something substantial on it, you know the pain can be intense and linger. However, it can be challenging to determine if any severe damage has occurred. It’s important to recognize when it’s more than just a significant bump so that you can receive the proper treatment. A broken toe can severely impact mobility, so use the following to determine if you need a podiatrist.

Your Guide to Broken Toes

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are small breaks that develop over time. They’re often related to sports injuries or occur when muscles around the bone begin to weaken. Prolonged stress will eventually lead to a hairline break. Symptoms include:

• Pain after running or walking
• Sore to the touch
• Swelling and redness
• Pain that comes and goes

Stress fractures are difficult to diagnose at home and will worsen over time, so see a podiatrist to avoid more severe issues. Often, these will resolve themselves with plenty of rest. You may also need to tape the toe to the adjacent one to keep it straight and realign the fracture.

Displaced Fractures

Displaced fractures are the most severe breaks. When the bone snaps, it may be pushed out of alignment. Often, the toe will look crooked. In the worst cases, the bone may break through the skin. These breaks are considered a medical emergency, and you should seek treatment right away. A podiatrist will perform an X-ray and then set the bone, so it’s aligned. Surgery, while rare, is also a possibility.

Traumatic Fractures

Stubbing your toe or dropping something on it cause traumatic fractures. There’s often a “cracking” sound, and symptoms may include:

• Throbbing pain
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Persistent pain

Depending on the severity of the break, you may need to wear a shoe or boot to alleviate pressure on the toe while walking. When untreated by a podiatrist, you can develop long-term pain and bone deformities if the break heals awkwardly.

If you have concerns about a broken toe, a podiatrist at High Point Foot Center can assist. This High Point, NC, foot specialist treats several conditions, including hammertoe, diabetes-related foot problems, and heel pain. They’ll create a comprehensive treatment and recovery plan and provide all the preventive tips needed to avoid future injuries. Call (336) 882-2070 to schedule a consultation and visit their website to learn more about their services.