Broken Toe Treatment

Self-Care at Home

These following things can be done at home to help decrease the pain and swelling, and help the fracture heal properly.

• Elevation
  
  
  • Swelling that occurs after the injury worsens pain.
    
    
  • To decrease swelling (and pain), keep the foot raised above the level of the heart as much as possible.
    
    
  • Prop the foot up on some pillows, especially when sleeping. Reclining in a lounge chair is also helpful.
  
  
• Ice
  
  
  • Put ice in a plastic bag and apply it to the injury for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours for the first 1-2 days. Frozen peas or corn may be used in place of ice.
    
    
  • Place a towel between the skin and the bag of ice or frozen peas or corn to protect the skin.
    
    
  
  
• Rest
  
  
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, prolonged standing, or walking.
    
    
  • Crutches may be needed, or a special shoe to wear when walking to avoid putting weight on the fracture while it heals.
  
  

Medical Treatment

Depending on the location and severity of the toe fracture, the fracture may need to be put back into place (reduced) and splinted or casted. If there is an open wound near the injured toe, a tetanus shot and antibiotic medication may also be necessary.