What do you do for broken toes?

The treatment for a broken toe is the same as most fractures. Your main priority is to ensure that you and the patient are safe from any immediate scene dangers. Your next priority is patient comfort and to prevent the condition from deteriorating.

Signs and Symptoms of a Fractured Toe

1. Patient may complain of pain in the affected toe.

2. Swelling and deformity of the affected toe.

3. Protruding bone and/or teared skin.

4. Patient may have heard the snapping of the bone.

Treatment for a Fractured Toe:

1. Ensure you are safe.

2. Reassure patient and ask for details of the mechanism of injury (how it happened).

3. If no bone is protruding, immobilise the toe by splinting it. This can be done by strapping the toe with tape to the adjacent toe.

4. Elevate to reduce swelling and apply an ice pack to relieve pain.

5. If you are unsure of the severity of the condition, transport to a hospital or a doctor.

Most toe injuries can heal by themselves without medical intervention. However, if you are unsure of the severity of the injury, consult a medical practitioner.