Broken Toe

Next Steps Follow-up

Talk to the doctor to find out when to schedule an appointment to have the injured toe evaluated to make sure it is healing properly. If any problems or complications develop sooner, the appointment should be scheduled sooner.

Prevention

To help prevent an injury resulting in a broken toe, sturdy and supportive shoes should be worn.

Outlook

Broken toes usually take about 6 weeks to heal. If problems last longer than 6 weeks, another x-ray film may be needed, or the injury should be rechecked by the doctor to see how the bone is healing.

Simple fractures usually heal well with no problems. However, a very bad fracture or a fracture that goes into a joint is at risk for developing arthritis, pain, stiffness, and possibly even a deformity.

For More Information

American Academy of Foot Physicians
8725 West Higgins Road, Suite 555
Chicago, Illinois 60631-2724
(888) THE-FEET (843-3338)

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
6300 North River Road
Rosemont, Illinois 60018-4262 
(800) 346-AAOS

Web Links

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Toe and Forefoot Fractures

American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Toe and Metatarsal Fractures

Synonyms and Keywords

toe fracture, metatarsal fracture, phalanx fracture, broken toe, foot trauma, foot injury, nail injury, subungual hematoma, open fracture, compound fracture, displaced toe fracture, rotated toe fracture, buddy taping, stress fracture