Toe injuries and broken toes are caused by a trauma to the foot region. In many cases, broken toes are the result of accidentally kicking or banging into an object or from dropping something directly on the foot. Broken toes may also result due to repetitive movements. In this case, the toe will sustain a stress fracture.
There are several bones in each human toe and at any time one or more of these bones can suffer a break. Immediately following the injury there may be evidence of pain and noticeable swelling and bruising. After some time has passed or if activities have continued, the broken toe may begin to look misshapen or deformed in some way. This deformity may indicate the broken toe is no longer in the right position. The smaller toes may not cause as much difficulties in movement when bones are broken but the big toe may exhibit more noticeable symptoms when bones are broken.
Many times workers injured on the job suffer broken toes without even realizing it. They continue to work until the pain and swelling become more apparent and limit their movements. It is important to have suspected broken toes checked out by a physician without delay to prevent additional injuries that can result. Some of the additional injuries and complications of a broken toe may not be evident for a few days or a few weeks.
Some of the complications associated with a broken toe may end up costing you lost work hours. In the event the injury has resulted in an additional injury to your toe nail, you may need to have the nail removed which can be a painful procedure that requires time to recover. Delaying an exam and treatment of a broken toe can also result in painful arthritis or a deformity which limits your work abilities.
To prevent more serious injuries and medical complications related to a broken toe, be sure to seek medical attention and have x-rays completed promptly so your broken bones will be properly protected and more likely to heal properly.
