Medical Myths:  The Truth Uncovered  #1

There’s Nothing You Can Do About A Broken Toe:  True or False?

There is often a delay in treatment for toe fractures because most people think there isn’t a treatment for them anyway.  This is FALSE!  Toe fractures are treated like any other fracture in the body.  If it’s not displaced (separation between fracture pieces), then immobilization is the typically treatment.  If there is separation of fracture pieces, sometimes a surgical procedure is necessary.  If not immobilized properly (i.e. wearing one of those stylish black Velcro boots), there can be a delay in healing or the fracture may not heal at all.  This can lead to long lasting pain and even deformity.  Kids who fracture their toes through the growth plates can have long lasting deformity as well if not treated appropriately.  The picture shown is of a female patient that broke her toe through the growth center and did not seek treatment.  The growth plate closed prematurely resulting in a shortened digit.  Moral of the story?  If you injure a toe and think it might be broken, seek treatment!  There IS something you can do about it!!  The doctors at Academy Foot and Ankle Specialists treat all conditions of the foot and ankle.  If you are experiencing foot, ankle or toe pain, contact us today for an appointment.  817-424-3668.