Home /

Quick Facts: Injuries and Poisoning /

Fractures /

... /

Broken Toe /

What causes a toe to break?

What are the symptoms of a broken toe?

How can doctors tell if my toe is broken?

How do doctors treat a broken toe?

Fractures

Overview of Broken Bones

Compression Fractures of the Spine

Growth Plate Fractures

ADDITIONAL CONTENT

Which form of treatment may be necessary for orbital cellulitis but not for preseptal cellulitis?

Antibiotics
Hospitalization
Management by an ophthalmologist
Surgery

Broken Toe

(Toe Fracture)

By

The Manual's Editorial Staff

Last full review/revision Feb 2021| Content last modified Feb 2021

Click here for the Professional Version

Get the full details

You can break any of the 2 or 3 tiny bones in your toes. All broken bones are considered fractures. For more information, see Overview of Broken Bones.

You usually break your toe when you stub it or drop something on it
You may have blood under your toenail
Doctors usually just tape your broken toe to the toe next to it

Toe fractures are often caused by:

A heavy object falling on your toe
Stubbing your toe by banging it against something hard like a piece of furniture or a step

Symptoms include:

Painful, swollen toe
Discolored toenail from blood trapped underneath

A fracture of the big toe is more painful, usually has more swelling and bruising, and may cause problems with walking.

Doctors will examine your toe. X-rays aren't usually needed.

Doctors will:

Tape your broken toe to the toe next to it (this is called buddy taping) and have you keep your toes taped for several weeks
If blood is trapped under the toenail, make a small hole in your nail to drain it and ease pain
Have you wear comfortable shoes

Broken toes rarely need to be put back into place.

NOTE: This is the Consumer Version. DOCTORS: Click here for the Professional Version

Click here for the Professional Version

Broken Shoulder

Was This Page Helpful?

Broken Wrist

Toe Fractures

Broken Metatarsal

Foot Fractures

Follow

Add to Any Platform

Merck and the Merck Manuals

Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world. The Merck Manual was first published in 1899 as a service to the community. The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Manual outside of North America. Learn more about our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge.

This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.

TOP