Toe injuries are common, whether from stubbing your toe, an awkward step, or an accident. But how do you know when it’s just a bruise, and when it’s a more serious injury, like a toe fracture? Understanding the difference is key to getting the right treatment and avoiding unnecessary complications. At Foot and Ankle Associates of Southern NH, we want to help you navigate through these situations, ensuring your feet heal properly.

What’s the Difference Between a Bruised Toe and a Fractured Toe?

A bruised toe and a fractured toe may seem similar at first, but there are some clear differences. Here’s how to tell them apart:

1. Pain Level

   • Bruised Toe: Typically, a bruised toe causes mild to moderate pain. It might hurt when you press on it or move it, but the pain tends to subside after a few hours or a couple of days.

   • Fractured Toe: A fractured toe, on the other hand, usually causes more intense pain, especially when you try to walk or move the toe. The pain is often sharp and persistent, lasting beyond the initial injury.

2. Swelling and Bruising

   • Bruised Toe: With a bruised toe, you’ll likely notice some swelling and discoloration (bruising), but the bruise may be limited to the area around the injury.

   • Fractured Toe: A broken toe typically shows more severe bruising and swelling, which can spread across the entire toe or even to the foot. In some cases, the toe may even look out of place or be visibly misaligned.

3. Appearance of the Toe

   • Bruised Toe: The toe will generally maintain its shape and alignment with a bruise but may appear slightly red, swollen, or tender to the touch.

   • Fractured Toe: A fractured toe may appear deformed, crooked, or misaligned. If you notice that your toe looks unusual or doesn’t line up correctly, it’s likely a fracture, and you should seek medical attention.

4. Mobility and Function

   • Bruised Toe: If you can move your toe without much discomfort, it’s more likely to be a bruise. You may experience some stiffness, but you should still be able to bend and straighten the toe.

   • Fractured Toe: A fractured toe often feels rigid or immobilized. You may have difficulty moving it, or it might be too painful to do so.

5. Continued Pain

   • Bruised Toe: Pain from a bruise typically improves within a few days, especially if you rest and apply ice.

   • Fractured Toe: If the pain doesn’t go away after a few days or worsens with movement, it’s a good indicator that you might have a fracture.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

If you’re unsure whether your toe is broken or bruised, it's always a good idea to see a podiatrist for an evaluation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t subside

• Visible misalignment or deformity in the toe

• Inability to move or bear weight on the toe

• Significant swelling or bruising that doesn’t improve after a couple of days

• Numbness or tingling in the toe or foot

A podiatrist will perform a thorough exam and may use X-rays to confirm whether you have a fracture and determine the best course of action for treatment.

Treatment for a Fractured Toe

If it’s determined that your toe is fractured, don’t worry—treatment can help you get back to your routine as quickly as possible. In many cases, fractures can be treated with:

• Rest and Ice: Resting the foot and applying ice can help manage pain and swelling.

• Buddy Taping: For minor fractures, a podiatrist may tape the fractured toe to an adjacent toe for support.

• Footwear Modifications: A special shoe with a stiff sole might be recommended to keep the toe immobilized and help you walk more comfortably.

• Surgery: In rare cases of severe fractures or misalignment, surgery may be necessary to properly align the bones.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of a toe fracture versus a simple bruise is essential for effective treatment. If you suspect a fracture or your symptoms persist, it’s important to seek professional care. At Foot and Ankle Associates of Southern NH, we’re here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you can heal properly and get back to your active lifestyle.

If you have any questions or concerns about a toe injury, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us. We’re here to support you!