How To Treat A Broken Toe

Broken toes cause a lot of pain and annoyance, and how to treat a broken toe is information that can help you stay far more comfortable during healing. Unfortunately, there is very little that can be done by a doctor for a minor fracture. Just about everything they can do, you can do just as easily at home.

To treat a broken toe, you will need:

• Medical tape
• OTC painkillers
• Ice packs

1. Use medical tape to tape the broken toe to the toe next to it. This is known as "buddy taping." The toe that isn't broken acts as a splint to immobilize your broken toe.
2. Keep off your foot as much as possible. The less stress you put on your foot, the sooner it will heal. If you are experiencing swelling, keep it elevated, as well.
3. Use over the counter painkillers if the broken toe is causing you pain. Some examples of painkillers you can try include naproxen, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin. Painkillers like ibuprofen and aspirin can also help fight inflammation.
4. Use ice packs to combat pain and swelling. Always make sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel or soft cloth. Use for 20 minutes at a time.
5. If the toe is badly broken, or if you do not experience relief from other treatments, go to the doctor. If the break is severe, a cast may be needed. In some cases, doctors will even recommend surgery to heal the broken toe.