Have you ever walked confidently through your living room, only to be brought to your knees by the corner of the sofa? No? Maybe an unexpected coffee table ambush? If you’re rolling around in agony and wondering if you’ve broken your toe, you’re not alone. Toe fractures are surprisingly common, and while they might not seem as dramatic as a broken arm or leg, they can still be incredibly painful and inconvenient. If you think you’ve broken a toe, here’s what to do—and how our physiotherapists at Philip Wood Physiotherapy may be able to help you heal. Call us for an appointment on 02 9838 3030 (once you’ve stopped cursing that corner.)
Signs of a Broken Toe
It can be difficult to tell whether you’ve broken your toe or just bruised it badly. Here are some common signs of a fracture:
- Severe pain immediately after impact
- Swelling and bruising around the toe
- Difficulty walking or putting weight on the foot
- Visible deformity—the toe may look misaligned or out of place
- A crunching or cracking sound at the moment of injury
If the toe looks badly misaligned, is numb, or the pain is unbearable, seek medical attention straight away. In some cases, X-rays may be necessary to determine the extent of the injury.
First Aid for a Broken Toe
If you suspect you’ve broken your toe, follow these steps to manage the injury before seeking professional care:
- Rest and elevate – Keep your foot raised to reduce swelling.
- Ice the area – Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel for 15–20 minutes every couple of hours.
- Pain relief – Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol can help with managing pain and discomfort. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication, especially for the first time.
- Protect the injury – to avoid any further injury or damage, protect the site as best as you can until you seek medical help. Have a friend or family member assist you with moving around and if necessary drive you to an emergency department for further investigation with the professionals!
How Physiotherapy Can Help
While minor toe fractures may heal on their own, physiotherapy can help ensure proper recovery and prevent complications such as stiffness, poor walking patterns, or long-term discomfort. Here’s how a physiotherapist may assist you:
1. Managing Swelling and Pain
A physiotherapist may use gentle techniques like manual lymphatic drainage or soft tissue massage to help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
2. Restoring Mobility
After a toe injury, you may find it difficult to move your foot normally. Targeted stretching and mobility exercises can help restore function and prevent stiffness.
3. Improving Strength and Balance
Walking differently to avoid toe pain can lead to imbalances in your gait, affecting your ankle, knee, and even hip. Our physiotherapists will guide you through strengthening exercises to maintain proper biomechanics.
4. Gait Training and Return to Activity
If you’re limping or walking awkwardly due to your injury, physiotherapy can help retrain your movement patterns, helping you to regain normal function without compensatory issues.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your toe pain is not improving after a few days, or you notice increased swelling, numbness, or persistent difficulty walking, it’s time to consult a professional. A broken toe might seem like a minor inconvenience, but without proper care, it can lead to longer-term issues. Call Philip Wood Physiotherapy on 02 9838 3030 to book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists and get back on your feet faster.