Stubbed Toes: Minor Injury, Major Pain

/

Everybody stubs a toe once in a while. Most often, it's not much of a problem. A shout and a rub of the toe, and soon the moment passes. Sometimes, however, a stubbed toe can lead to a bigger problem and a visit to the podiatrist for examination and treatment is appropriate.

Have you ever wondered why it hurts so much when you stub your toe? There are two reasons and they combine to create a significant reaction. The first is the lack of any fat deposits at the front of your toe to help absorb the impact. The second is the large number of nerve endings in your toes. These send pain signals to the brain, even when an injury is minor or momentary. The easiest way to prevent these sudden injuries is to wear shoes, even when you're at home. It's much harder to stub a toe in a shoe than it is when you're barefoot!

Once the initial shock of stubbing your toe wears off, you should pause to inspect your toe for symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition such as a fracture, including:

  • A cracking sound when you curl or extend your toe

  • Pain in the toe that doesn't stop after a few minutes

  • Bleeding under or around the toenail

  • Discoloration

  • Persistent swelling

Complications from stubbing your toe may include infection, especially among patients with diabetes or others with diminished circulation in the feet; osteoarthritic reaction triggered by the injury; or osteomyelitis, a bone inflammation that can occur in children after an injury.

Your podiatrist will have numerous options at his or her disposal to treat your stubbed toe. These include:

  • RICE (rest, icing, compression, and elevation)

  • Over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain and swelling

  • Immobilization by taping or splinting or with a specialized boot

  • Surgery to remove bone fragments, but only in very severe cases

Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.