Toe and Forefoot Fractures
What are Toe and Forefoot Fractures?
The forefoot is the front of the foot that includes the toes. Fractures occurring in this part of the foot are painful but very of ten not disabling. There are 2 types of fractures namely, traumatic fracture and stress fracture. Traumatic fractures occur when there is a direct impact of your foot on a hard surface. Stress fractures are tiny hair line cracks in the bone, most commonly caused due to repeated stress.
Symptoms of Toe and Forefoot Fractures
The symptoms of toe and forefoot fractures include pain, bruising, swelling and inability to walk.
Diagnosis of Toe and Forefoot Fractures
To detect toe and forefoot fractures, your doctor conducts a physical examination of the foot, and may order X-rays to identify the location and severity of the fracture.
Treatments for Toe and Forefoot Fractures
Toe and forefoot fractures can be treated by the following ways:
- Rest: Adequate amount of rest can sometimes help heal a traumatic fracture.
- Splinting: Splints may be applied to keep the toe in a fixed position.
- Rigid shoe: A stiff-soled shoe may be recommended to protect the toe and position it correctly.
- Buddy taping: The fractured toe is taped to the adjacent toe with a gauze pad between the toes.
- Surgery: Your doctor realigns the fractured bones using pins or screws to hold the bones together in place until they heal completely.
