A Stubbed Toe Can Lead to Real Injury

Stubbing your toe hurts and can lead to an injury that is more serious than it initially appears. Because there is little to no fat at the front of the toe to help absorb any impact, and because there is a concentration of nerves in the feet and toes, a stubbed toe is intensely painful at the moment it occurs. Typically, that discomfort subsides quickly or after a few minutes of rest and ice. But what if the pain doesn’t go away or you start noticing other unusual symptoms? It’s time to call the podiatrist.

In the hours and days after stubbing your toe, you should be on the lookout for signs that may indicate a more serious condition such as a fracture, including:

  • Pain that doesn’t subside or that increases when pressure is applied
  • Bleeding under or around the toenail 
  • Dark color or bruising at the affected area
  • Swelling that doesn’t get better after a few days

Stubbing your toe can lead to serious complications, especially if you have diabetesor arthritis. Possibilities include infection or arthritic reaction. In children and adolescents, osteomyelitis, an inflammation of the bone, is a possibility after stubbing a toe, especially if a broken bone goes unnoticed.

Your podiatrist will begin your visit with an examination and possibly an x-ray of your stubbed toe. If the toe is broken, treatment options include taping or splinting. A rigid boot may be recommended to immobilize the area and prevent further injury. If the fracture is complicated, surgery may be appropriate, although this is not necessary in most cases.

If you have stubbed your toe, or if you have any concerns about the health or well-being of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, contact Advanced Feet and Ankle Care at (732) 679-4330 to schedule a convenient appointment with Jason Grossman, DPM in our comfortable Old Bridge or Sayreville offices. Dr. Grossman will provide you with a thorough examination and accurate diagnosis, and then work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for treatment and follow up.

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