Toe fracture
A toe fracture is a break in one of the bones of the toe and commonly occurs after stubbing your toe, dropping something on your foot or experiencing a direct impact.
At Aligna Podiatry in Balwyn North we assess toe fractures to determine the severity of the injury and help you manage pain, swelling and mobility while the toe heals. We also assess your footwear and walking pattern to make sure you can safely return to normal activity. Book a toe fracture assessment today.
What is a toe fracture?
A toe fracture occurs when one of the small bones in the toe breaks.
Toe fractures commonly happen after a direct impact such as stubbing the toe against furniture or dropping a heavy object onto the foot. They can also occur from a twisting injury or significant force through the toe.
Some fractures are stable and can heal with simple protection while others may require further medical assessment or treatment.
How it can feel:
- Pain in the affected toe
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness when touching the toe
- Pain when walking
- Difficulty moving the toe
- Difficulty fitting into normal footwear
Signs, symptoms & when to see a podiatrist
Common signs:
- Sudden toe pain after an injury
- Swelling around the toe
- Bruising
- Tenderness over the bone
- Pain when walking
- Difficulty moving the toe
- The toe looking out of position
See a podiatrist if:
- Pain and swelling are significant
- You cannot walk comfortably
- The toe looks crooked or deformed
- Pain is not improving
- You are unsure whether the toe is fractured
- You have persistent pain after an injury
A toe fracture should be assessed if there is significant deformity, severe pain or difficulty walking because some fractures require more specific treatment.
How we treat plantar plate tear at Aligna
Treatment depends on the type and location of the fracture.
Stage 1: Protect the toe
The first priority is protecting the injured toe and reducing activities that cause pain. We assess the injury and recommend appropriate footwear or other forms of support while the bone heals.
Stage 2: Restore movement and function
As the fracture heals we help you gradually return to normal walking and activity. Exercises may be recommended to restore toe movement and strength where appropriate.
We also assess your walking pattern
A painful toe can change the way you walk and place extra stress on other parts of the foot. We assess your walking pattern and footwear to help you return to normal movement.
If the fracture appears displaced or more complex we can recommend appropriate imaging or referral for further medical management.
Recovery & rehab
How long does it take?
Many uncomplicated toe fractures heal within around four to six weeks although some can take longer depending on the location and severity of the fracture.
Why rehab matters
Even after the bone has healed you may still have stiffness or discomfort. Gradually restoring movement and normal walking can help you return to your usual activities.
How we help you recover:
- Advice on protecting the toe
- Footwear recommendations
- Activity modification
- Assessment of walking mechanics
- Exercises to restore movement and strength
- Gradual return to sport and exercise
Most uncomplicated toe fractures heal well with appropriate protection and time.
Summary
Our goal is simple: to settle your pain, support the healing toe and help you return to comfortable walking and normal activity.
At Aligna Podiatry we don’t just treat the fractured toe. We assess your lower limb biomechanics to understand how the injury is affecting your walking and the rest of your foot, then address the root cause to support your recovery and reduce the risk of ongoing problems.
Your treatment plan is built around you, combining footwear advice, activity modification and support for the injured toe with targeted rehabilitation to restore movement and function as you heal.
Whether you have recently fractured your toe or are still experiencing pain after an old injury, we’re here to help you restore normal function, get back on your feet and return to the activities you enjoy.
Book your appointment in Balwyn North
Struggling with chronic heel pain, tendon pain or another stubborn injury?
Our experienced team at Aligna Podiatry in Balwyn North takes a holistic, whole-body approach to treating the foot, ankle and knee. We combine high-power laser therapy, shockwave with hands-on care, cupping and rehab to reduce pain and restore alignment and movement. Contact our Balwyn North clinic today to book an assessment and find out which treatment is right for you.