You have been treated for a injury to a toe. You have had a thorough examination and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following instructions will aid your recovery.
Following an injury to any of the toes you may experience pain, bruising, swelling and difficulty walking.
Apart from the big toe, injuries to the other toes do not require X-rays.
Fractured Toes
Cracks or breaks to the toes are known as fractures and heal well with minimal treatment and no long term problems.
If you have fractured any of the other toes, the following treatment can be followed to relieve the symptoms you may have.
Dislocated Toes
In some circumstances the toe may be dislocated. An X-ray will be requested, if this is the case.
After, the clinician will need to ensure your toe is put in the correct position. The toe will be strapped to its neighbour to ensure it does not pop out of the joint again.
What is the Treatment for Toe Injuries?
- Taking regular painkillers can help with any pain you have. Paracetamol and/or ibuprofen can be purchased over the counter in any Pharmacy without a prescription. Always check Manufacturer’s instructions when using over the counter medication.
- Strapping the affected toe to the toe next to it, can act as a splint and may help with pain. Re- strap the toe if the strapping becomes wet or comes off, there is no need to return to the Emergency Department for this. Continue strapping for 1–2 weeks.
- Rest; avoiding any excessive standing or walking can minimise the pain.
- Application of an ice-pack to area for 10–20 minutes 2–4 hourly will help to relieve any swelling. Ensure ice is placed in a bag and wrapped in a wet towel, to avoid ice burns. Frozen peas can also be used.
- Elevation of the affected leg above the level of the hip will also reduce swelling to toe and foot.
- Wearing comfortable supportive shoes can protect the toes and prevent further injury to the area.
Will I need to be seen again?
Pain should settle within 2–3 weeks if the toe is bruised or previously dislocated.
If pain persists for longer than this time you may have a fracture to your toe. If a fracture is present pain may last for up to 6–8 weeks. They usually heal well with no long term problems.
If you have any concerns please do not hesitate to see your GP.
Other people who can give medical advice are:
- Your GP
- 111 Service
- Your Local Pharmacist
Share this...
Were you prepared for the visit today?
Did you feel you were prepared for your hospital visit today? Not many people do. The focus of getting there, whether it is in an emergency or for an appointment, can easily end up with you in a muddle.
Am I Prepared?Related Information
Introduction Video
Introducing you to MySelfCare and a Quick overview of its features and how it works in the Hospital
Read More
Social Media
Social media is everywhere, we use it everyday in some shape or form. Here are some tips on using social media to improve your mental wellbeing.
Read More
The Work Life Balance
A greater demand from the modern day work culture is increasingly having a detrimental impact on our mental wellbeing. Facing this ever increasing pressure is a…
Read More
Was this information useful?
How easy to understand and how useful was the information for you. All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
How was your visit today?
How well did our staff do today in helping you with your condition. Please note All feedback is anonymous. If you would like a possible response, please include your email.
Treatment Feedback - Tools for Hospitals
Coming soon – order physical products, and new categories, review your documents and much more.
You must have a valid NHS Email to use this service.
Find Out More
News & Blog
View All
Part 2 – Delivering Information
This video explores the diverse range of patient information delivery products offered by MySelfCare, providing comprehensive guidance on how to utilise them effectively.
Read More
Part 1 – Scanning QRs
This video provides step-by-step instructions on how to use QR codes with MySelfCare, making it easy for you to utilise this powerful feature
Read More
Introduction Video
Introducing you to MySelfCare and a Quick overview of its features and how it works in the Hospital
Read More
Burnout at work
Over the past few decades, “burnout” has become an all-too-familiar way of speaking about a growing problem. Although originating with psychologist Herbert Freudenberger’s 1974 theory, it…
Read More