What To Do For A Broken Toe

If you know what to do for a broken toe, you can ease your pain and speed the healing. A broken toe is usually painful, swollen and discolored. There are several things you can do for a broken toe.

If you want to heal a broken toe, you will need:

• Pain medication
• First-aid tape
• Gauze pad
• Stiff-soled shoe

1. Examination. See a doctor if you have symptoms for more than a few days then go to the doctor. To verify that you actually have a broken toe, the doctor can take x-rays.
2. Medication. Over the counter medicine may help with the pain of a broken toe. Ibuprofen, naproxen sodium and acetaminophen are pain relievers that can bring relief. If your doctor thinks you need a stronger pain reliever he may write you a prescription.
3. Immobilization. A smaller toe that is broken can be taped to the toe next to it. This acts as a splint. Before taping, some gauze can be placed between the toes to prevent friction.
4. Reduction. If a doctor sees that your toe is broken into fragments he may need to put it back into place. Usually a shot of anesthesia is given and the doctor does the reduction. He may apply a cast if necessary.
5. Stiff-bottomed shoe. A shoe that has a wide foot bed and a stiff sole can protect a broken toe while allowing for swelling.
6. Surgery. A doctor may need to fix the broken toe by putting the bone fragments back together by performing surgery that includes pins or screws so that the broken toe heals properly.