Signs of a Sprained Toe

If you have injured your toe, it is important to determine whether it is broken or just sprained. There are certain symptoms you should consider if you think your toe is sprained.

Symptoms of a Sprained Toe

• If you are experiencing pain and tenderness in your toe or pain while moving your toe around and it has a bruised appearance, it is possible you have sprained your toe.

Considerations

• Because the signs of having a sprained toe are similar to having a broken toe, it is wise to seek the advice of your doctor before attempting treatment at home.

Treatment

• If you have determined that your toe is sprained, you can try one or all of these methods to relieve the pain and help the healing process along.

  - Ice
  - Elevation
  - Over-the-counter pain relievers
  - Protective shoes

Effects

• Swelling and pain in the toe will be at their worst in the first 48 hours. If the toe sprain is very bad, expect pain for at least 7 to 10 days.

Warning

• Toe sprains often occur while barefoot. To prevent toe sprains, avoid walking around without shoes whenever possible.