Most have been there. We are moving something and somehow our grip is lost under varying circumstances and with a heavy thud; impact. Trauma focused on the big toe, perhaps a few tears and several choice words, was the prelude to you assessing the damage. After excruciating pain and throbbing that was only amplified when the shoe and sock is removed, exposes a nasty inflamed toe, raging with angry black, blue, and red skin and the toenail suddenly looks like paper and the slightest bump will cast it off. Knowing what to do after you discovered the obvious medical needs of your toe is the next step, and we at Belmont Anderson and Associates would like to relate some information regarding the trauma sustained on your toe.
What to Do When Something Heavy Falls on Your Toe
The toe injury is damage to its structure. A fairly common foot injury is where the soft tissue has either been lacerated, punctures, has abrasions, or infliction to the toenail. Swelling, redness, bruising, and pain in the toes are all or in part experienced. Cold compression, elevation, and keeping weight off the toe is recommended for relief and immediate treatment, as well as well as over the counter anti-inflammatory and pain relievers. Protective footwear, crutches, and toe splints might be also utilized. If the skin has broken, or the toenail has been removed, be sure to clean it with topical ointments and wound cleaning treatments.
Common Causes of Toe & Toenail Injuries
Common causes to toe trauma can include the following examples:
– Tripping/Falling
– Occupational injury
– Running
– Sports injury
– Toe Impact of Hard/Heavy Surface
Common Toe & Toenail Injury Examples
Common toe related injuries are:
– Toe Contusions
– Toe Dislocation
– Toe Fracture
– Toenail Injury
Treatment for Broken or Injured Big Toe
Applying the treatments mentioned earlier you can also reduce the symptoms with some these tips listed below.
1) If you sought professional medical treatment, follow their instructions.
2) Gently clean affected area with lukewarm water and mild soap. Avoid scrubbing the skin.
3) After you have patted the area dry with a clean, dry towel, treat the area with a topical antibiotic ointment.
4) For 20-30 minutes every couple of hours laid a cold compress; damp cloth wrapped in ice, on the area.
5) Elevate the injured foot.
6) Keep weight off the toe using crutches or a walker.
7) Splint or gauze the toe as directed by your doctor for additional support.
8) Tape the inflicted toe with an injured toe for additional support.
9) Naproxen or ibuprofen can be used as directed to reduce swelling and pain.
Should I See a Podiatrist for an Injured Toe?
In most cases, the toe can heal on its own, but if you are experiencing one or more of the following symptoms, we recommend you see a doctor as soon as possible.
– Pain and/or swelling of the toe or surrounding skin continue to worsen.
– Tenderness over the bones or toe worsens.
– The skin around the wound reddens more and more over time.
– Toe or toenail deforms.
– Losing the ability to stand or walk on the inflicted toe.
Injured Foot Treatment & Relief
If you have experienced toe trauma and require medical attention, see the specialists of Belmont Anderson and Associates today and let us give your feet the care it needs.