A sprained toe occurs when the ligaments in the toe are stretched or torn. This injury often results from trauma, such as stubbing the toe, or from hyperextension, where the joint is forced beyond its normal range of motion. A sprained toe is different from a broken toe, which involves damage to the bone rather than the ligament. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty moving the toe. Some patients may also experience joint instability or hear a popping sound when the injury occurs. Any of the numerous joints in the toes can be affected, and the severity can range from minor ligament stretching to complete tears. Athletes and others who engage in activities involving sudden movements or uneven surfaces are at a higher risk of spraining a toe. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury by examining the toe, discussing its cause, and using imaging, such as X-rays, to rule out fractures. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Amir Shalev, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
