Definition of a Sprained Toe:
- A toe sprain is caused by a partial tear of the ligaments that support a toe. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other.
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| Meschan, I. 1955 An Atlas of Normal Radiographic Anatomy Saunders, London |
Common Causes of a Sprained Toe:
- Stubbing your toe into something when walking barefoot
- Landing awkwardly from a jump, causing a toe to jam into the end of your shoe
- A sideways yanking of the toe while wearing flip-flops or sandals that leave your toe exposed
Symptoms of a Sprained Toe Include:
- Pain and tenderness in the toe
- Swelling and bruising of the toe
- Pain when moving the toe
Treatment includes:
Self-care: R.I.C.E
- Rest—Avoid using the injured toe.
- Ice—Apply ice or a cold pack to your toe for 15 to 20 minutes, four times a day for 2 to 3 days or until the pain goes away. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.Do Not Sleep With The Ice Pack Because You Could Get Frostbite.
- Compression—If the injured toe is the big toe, wrap a two-inch elastic compression bandage around it. Put several wraps around the big toe and then include the rest of the forefoot within the bandage. This will limit swelling of your big toe. Other toes cannot be effectively compressed with a bandage. It is important not to cut off blood circulation to your toe or any body part when using such wraps – do not make them very tight.
- Elevate— Keep your toe elevated above the level of your heart whenever possible for 48 - 72 hours. This helps reduce both swelling and pain.
- Apply the R.I.C.E technique as the toe heals. If you have to use the toe (walking or any activity where your foot is moving is involved) protect the sprained or broken toe by wearing a shoe with a stiff sole.
- Soaking the foot with the sprained toe in Epson Salts will help reduce inflammation and pain significantly without the use of medication.
Medication
The following drugs may help reduce inflammation and pain. Consult your doctor before taking any medication:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Aspirin
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
