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Toe Fracture: Teen Version

What is a toe fracture?

A toe fracture is a break or crack in one or more of the bones in your toe. It may be just a bend or small crack in the bone, or the bone may break into pieces or shatter. You may have a break in several places or the break may be in a joint between the toes. Some fractures may stick out through the skin.

What is the cause?

A broken toe is usually caused by twisting your foot or a direct hit—like when you kick a hard object or something falls on your toe. A fracture may also be the result of a medical condition that causes weak or brittle bones.

If you play a sport where you don't wear supportive shoes, such as martial arts, ballet, or gymnastics, you have a greater risk for toe injuries.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include:

  • A toe that is cold, pale, or numb
  • Bleeding under the toenail
  • Loss of a toenail
  • A change in the shape of the toe

How is it diagnosed?


  • X-rays of the toe

How is it treated?

The treatment depends on the type of fracture.

  • Usually the broken toe is taped to the toe next to it while it heals.
  • In rare cases surgery or a walking cast is needed to fix the broken bone.
    • Your provider will tell you how much weight you can put on your foot, if any. Use crutches, a knee walker, or a cane as directed by your healthcare provider.
  • Your provider may advise you to wear stiff-soled shoes or give you a special boot.

With treatment, broken toes take up to 6 weeks to heal. You may need to do special exercises to help your toe get stronger and more flexible. Ask your healthcare provider about this.

How can I take care of myself?


    • Keep the injured foot up on pillows when you sit or lie down.
  • If your toenail is loose but has not fallen off, keep a bandage around it. Tell your healthcare provider if the toenail falls off.

Ask your healthcare provider:

  • How and when you will hear your test results
  • How long it will take to recover
  • How to take care of yourself at home


How can I help prevent a toe fracture?

Most broken toes are caused by accidents that are not easy to prevent. However, shoes that fit well and give good support can help prevent injury.

Developed by RelayHealth.
Pediatric Advisor 2015.2 published by RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2015-03-01
Last reviewed: 2014-01-23
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