Toe (Phalanx) Fracture

Description

This is a break of a bone in a toe, usually from stubbing it or dropping something on it. Most toe fractures are minor and heal well.

How it happens (the mechanism)

A stub or a dropped object breaks one of the small toe bones. Most need protection and patience more than anything elaborate, and a neighboring toe makes a natural splint. The exceptions worth flagging are the big toe (which bears more load and may involve its growth plate) and any toe injury with a broken nail bed or skin, which is treated like an open fracture to prevent infection.

Symptoms

Pain, swelling, and bruising of the toe, sometimes with a crooked look or a nail injury, and discomfort walking.

Doctor examination and imaging

The doctor checks alignment and the nail and skin; X-rays show the fracture and whether the joint or growth plate is involved.

Treatment

Most are treated by taping the injured toe to the one next to it (“buddy taping”) and wearing a stiff-soled shoe for comfort for a few weeks. A significantly crooked toe is straightened first; a nail-bed injury or an open break needs prompt, proper cleaning and care.

Recovery and long-term outlook

The lesser toes heal reliably with simple care; the big toe and any growth-plate or nail-bed injury are watched a little more closely.

When to call the doctor

Call if pain is severe or worsening, your child will not bear weight or use the leg at all, the area becomes very swollen, red, or warm, your child develops a fever, or things are not improving with rest as expected.

Learn more

OrthoInfo (AAOS) — Toe and Forefoot Fractures: orthoinfo.aaos.org

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For specific concerns about your child, consult a board-certified, fellowship-trained pediatric orthopaedic surgeon.