Most often, toe fractures occur due to a direct injury, namely a blow, a very heavy object falling on the foot, a person landing unsuccessfully, etc. In most cases, such injuries are open, and affect only the nail, middle or main phalanx.
Symptoms
Of course, toe fractures cannot go unnoticed, especially if it concerns the main phalanx, when the functions of the foot are impaired. The signs of such injuries are almost always the same, but their intensity varies significantly (depending on the location of the fracture). So, injuries of the distal phalanx of the leg will be less painful than the main, which communicates with the bones of the foot. It is also worth noting that fractures of the toes 2, 3, 4 and 5 in a row (except for the large one) may initially be generally invisible. And only with an increase in pain, a person turns to a traumatologist.
So, let's look at what signs should lead the patient to the idea that his toes are injured:
- foot function is violated (in case the main phalanx is broken);
- fingers swell strongly;
- hemorrhage occurs under the skin or nail;
- pain occurs, especially when trying to move your fingers;
- movements become pathological and unnatural;
- with open fractures , a crunch of bone fragments during pressure is heard;
- the limb is in an unnatural position.
Toe fracture : what to do?
If you have damaged the phalanx of the toes, then you should definitely contact a traumatologist. After all, independent treatment can contribute to improper healing of the bone, as well as infection in the wound. In the event that your loved one was injured, he is recommended to provide first aid.
Recreation
The patient should be completely fenced off from physical stress, including long walking or standing. Crutches may be needed to visit a doctor, as wearing shoes in such situations is undesirable.
Ice packs
Immediately after the injury, it is recommended to apply ice to the broken finger and maintain it for 17-23 minutes every 2 hours. To protect the skin between the body and an ice bag should put a terry towel.
Height
As mentioned above, fractures of the toes are primarily characterized by severe swelling and hemorrhage under the skin. To prevent this condition of the limb, as well as greatly reduce pain, it is advisable to place the victim’s leg above the level of the heart and keep it as long as possible.
Medical therapy
After the patient was given first aid, he should be taken to a traumatologist, especially if a fracture of the big toe occurred . The treatment of such damage consists in the fact that a plaster cast is applied to the affected area from the upper third of the lower leg up to the injured finger. Such a clamp must be kept for at least 5-6 weeks. In addition, the patient is prescribed drug therapy, which includes taking painkillers, as well as vitamins and minerals, including calcium.