Foot Fracture

What is a foot fracture?

A foot fracture occurs when bones in your foot or toes break. Fractures typically develop from foot trauma from falls or a blow to the foot. If the foot fracture is closed, it means the bone is broken but doesn’t protrude through the skin. In an open fracture, the skin breaks, and the bone can stick out.

You can also have a non-displaced fracture, meaning the bone cracks but the ends of the bone stay together. If the fracture is displaced, the ends of your broken bones are separated, either partially or completely.

Some people, especially older adults and those with underlying medical conditions like osteoporosis, can develop stress fractures in their feet or toes.

You can also develop a Jones fracture which describes a break in the bone of the pinky toe side of your foot. Jones fractures generally occur from increased pressure on your feet from running on uneven surfaces or from weight gain.

What are the symptoms of a foot fracture?

Symptoms of a foot fracture can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and severity of the fracture.  You might experience:

• Pain
• Bruising
• Swelling
• Difficulties walking

Immediately after a foot injury, you should keep weight off the affected foot or toe and apply ice to minimize swelling. Seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital if you have an open toe or foot fracture.

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation at C&S Foot and Ankle if your symptoms aren’t treatable with over-the-counter medications and rest.

The team provides physical exams on-site and may request X-rays or other imaging tests to confirm a toe or foot fracture. They also customize a treatment plan that focuses on healing the fracture and preventing additional complications.

How is a foot fracture treated?

Treatment for toe fractures typically involves keeping weight off of the affected toe to prevent additional bone damage. The C&S Foot and Ankle team may also tape your toes together to minimize movement and prevent pain.

If you have a toe fracture and the bone is not in the correct position, the team can manipulate it back into place without the need for surgery.

For foot fractures, the providers can reposition your bones to ensure they heal properly before applying a bandage or a cast. You may be a candidate for surgery if you have a severe foot fracture that requires pins or screws to stabilize your bone, so it can heal.

During the healing process, the team may recommend that you use a cane, walker, or crutches to keep your weight off the broken bone. You might also need to limit strenuous exercise and other activities for several weeks or months to prevent additional injuries to your toe or foot bones.

Call C&S Foot and Ankle to schedule an evaluation for a toe or foot fracture or book an appointment online today.