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Broken Toe

Broken Toe Overview

Each toe is made up of several bones. One or more of these bones may be broken (fractured) after an injury to the foot or toes.



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Broken Toe

Nail Injuries Overview

The fingernail is an important part of fingertip function. It provides support for the finger pad and improves sensation. The toenail functions in a similar manner in the foot.

Injuries to the nail can range from a bruise under the nail to separation of the nail from the nail bed. They can be complex wounds to repair. Permanent deformity to the nail can result, even after proper repair.

The nail is a complex structure involving three different layers.

  • The nail bed (or matrix or plate) is underneath the nail and is responsible for nail growth and support.

  • The nail itself is the hard substance on the back of the finger or toe.

  • The eponychium (cuticle) and lateral nail folds (raised skin on the sides of the nail) are also part of the nail.

Nail Injuries Causes

Most injuries to the nail arise from one of three mechanism...



Read the Nail Injuries article »



Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Fracture, Foot »

Approximately 10% of all fractures occur in the 26 bones of the foot.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary