How to Know If Your Toe Is Broken

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If you find it difficult to walk or run and have pain, swelling, and tenderness in your toe, the toe may be broken. Here are some symptoms to be on the lookout for.

Step 1: Note a snap or pop
Note whether you heard a snap or pop at the time of the injury.

Step 2: Note response to touch
Observe whether the pain is worse when you move or touch the toe.

Step 3: Note any swelling or bruising
Look for swelling and bruising.

Tip
A broken toe may turn black and blue, and you may observe bleeding or discoloration under your toenail.

Step 4: Note any deformation
Check whether the toe is deformed.

Tip
A dislocated toe can also appear deformed.

Step 5: Consult your doctor
Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. They will perform a physical examination, and may order an X-ray. While you can guess about your toe's state on your own, your doctor can be certain about not only what is wrong, but how to fix it.

Did You Know?
A 2009 study suggests that you can test the flexibility of your cardiac arteries by touching your toes.