About this Information

This page provides advice on caring for a broken toe following assessment at one of our Urgent Treatment Centres or Minor Injury Units. It explains how to manage your injury, reduce pain and swelling, and when to seek further medical advice.

About Broken Toes

Broken toes are one of the most common foot injuries. They can happen when you:

• Stub your toe.
• Twist or splay your toe.
• Drop a heavy object onto your foot.
• Have your foot stood on or run over.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain.
• Swelling.
• Bruising.
• Tenderness.
• Occasionally, blood underneath the toenail.

Most broken toes heal well without specialist treatment.

Do I Need an X-ray?

Not every toe injury requires an X-ray.

An X-ray may be recommended if:

• There is an open wound over the injury.
• The long bones of the foot are painful.
• The toe appears twisted or out of position.
• The toe looks shorter than normal.
• The injury involves your big toe.

Many toe injuries are treated without an X-ray because the treatment remains the same, whether the toe is broken, bruised or sprained. This also avoids unnecessary exposure to radiation.

Looking After Your Toe

Rest

Rest your foot during the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid standing for long periods.

Elevate Your Foot

Raise your foot above the level of your hip whenever possible to help reduce swelling.

Pain Relief

Taking pain relief regularly can help you walk more comfortably while your toe heals.

Your pharmacist can advise which medication is suitable for you. Common options include:

• Paracetamol.
• Ibuprofen.

Always follow the instructions provided with your medication.

Walking and Footwear

Wear a firm or stiff-soled shoe to:

• Protect your toe.
• Reduce movement.
• Help you walk more normally.

Most people do not require crutches. Walking normally, as comfort allows, is encouraged.

Buddy Strapping

Your clinician may recommend buddy strapping, where the injured toe is gently taped to the neighbouring toe for support.

Buddy strapping can usually be continued for up to three weeks.

Your clinician will show you how to replace the strapping at home if it becomes loose, wet or dirty.

Recovery

Most simple toe fractures heal within six to eight weeks.

You can gradually return to sport and exercise once:

• You are walking normally.
• Running is comfortable.
• You have no pain.

If your pain returns after increasing your activity, reduce your activity level and allow more time for healing.

When to Seek Further Help

Most people do not need another appointment.

However, seek medical advice if:

• Your toe becomes misshapen or moves out of alignment.
• Your toe becomes numb or tingles.
• Your toe turns blue or grey (other than normal bruising).
• You are unable to put weight on your foot despite pain relief and supportive footwear.

Our Urgent Care Services

Our Minor Injury Units and Urgent Treatment Centres provide treatment for urgent minor injuries and illnesses.

No appointment or referral is needed.

South Bristol Urgent Treatment Centre

Minor injuries and illnesses

Open 8am to 8pm, seven days a week

South Bristol NHS Community Hospital
Hengrove Promenade
Hengrove
Bristol
BS14 0DE

Telephone: 0300 124 6260

Yate Minor Injury Unit

Minor injuries only

Open 8am to 8pm, seven days a week

Yate West Gate Centre
21 West Walk
Yate
BS37 4AX

Telephone: 0300 125 6800

Clevedon Minor Injury Unit

Minor injuries only

Open 8am to 8pm, seven days a week

North Somerset Community Hospital
Old Street
Clevedon
BS21 6BS

Telephone: 01275 546852

Accessible Information

This information is available in alternative formats, including:

• Large print.
• Audio.
• Easy Read.
• British Sign Language.
• Other languages.

Please contact the service if you require information in an accessible format.