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Date issued: December 2022

Review date: December 2024

Ref: A-560/NB/ED/Toe Injuries

PDF:  Toe Injuries final December 2022.pdf [pdf] 112KB

What is the treatment for a toe injury?

• Most toe fractures (broken toes) and other toe injuries do not need specific treatment.

• Sometimes an injured toe is more comfortable strapped to a neighbouring toe for support.

Can I remove the strapping?

You can remove your strapping to wash your feet and replace it yourself (unless you have been told not to).

Do I need an x-ray?

It is not always necessary to have an x-ray as it will not change how we manage your injury.  A broken toe and a sprained toe are managed in the same way.

How long will it be painful?

A broken toe will usually be painful for about 3 weeks but will take longer to recover fully.

How can I look after my toe injury?

• Elevate your toe (higher than your bottom) for the first 2 days (longer if it is very swollen) as much as you can.

• It may be uncomfortable walking on your heel but try to walk as normally as you can as walking in an unnatural way puts abnormal stress on your foot and may slow down recovery.

• Avoid sport for 3 weeks or longer if it is more painful.

• Wear whatever shoes are comfortable.

• The toenail may turn black due to blood under the nail. It may come off in time. A new nail will take 3-5 months to grow.

Can I take painkillers?

Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication are both vital to help you recover.

Paracetamol is useful to ease pain. It is best to take it regularly for a few days or so, rather than every now and then. An adult dose is two 500 mg tablets, four times a day. A doctor may prescribe additional painkillers such as codeine if the pain is more severe.  If you are prescribed a combination of paracetamol and codeine (e.g., cocodamol or codydramol) then it is important not to take additional paracetamol as you will accidentally overdose

Anti-inflammatory medication can be used with paracetamol or as an alternative. There are many types and brands. They relieve pain and reduce inflammation and swelling (often the cause of the pain). You can buy ibuprofen at pharmacies or supermarkets without a prescription. The dose varies depending on your age and other medical problems. Side-effects sometimes occur with anti-inflammatory painkillers. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice regarding them

If pain is not controlled by these simple painkillers, do not exceed the recommended dose but see your general practitioner to discuss the possibility of stronger painkillers.

Do I need a follow-up appointment?

Usually, a clinic appointment is not required after a toe injury.  If you have ongoing problems, please see your GP.

Self-Referral to Physiotherapy

You have the option of a delayed referral to physiotherapy should your injury not settle with the advice given during your time in ED.  If you feel you require physiotherapy, then please use the link below to self-refer.  This is also available via your General Practitioner.

https://www.plymouthhospitals.nhs.uk/physio-self-referral

Please be Aware: it is very important that you see your doctor immediately if you notice that the calf becomes increasingly tender, red and hot to touch          

DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is a rare complication following any injury which may limit your mobility. Symptoms to be aware of and to report include:

• throbbing or cramping pain in 1 leg (rarely both legs), usually in the calf or thigh

• swelling in 1 leg (rarely both legs)                                                                         

• warm skin around the painful area                                                

• red or darkened skin around the painful area                   

• swollen veins that are hard or sore when you touch them

Call 999 or attend the Emergency Department if you develop chest pain or breathlessness