Broken Toe Treatment

Self-Care at Home

These following things can be done at home to help decrease the pain and swelling, and help the fracture heal properly.

• Elevation
  
  
  • Swelling that occurs after the injury worsens pain.
    
    
  • To decrease swelling (and pain), keep the foot raised above the level of the heart as much as possible.
    
    
  • Prop the foot up on some pillows, especially when sleeping. Reclining in a lounge chair is also helpful.
  
  
• Ice
  
  
  • Put ice in a plastic bag and apply it to the injury for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours for the first 1-2 days. Frozen peas or corn may be used in place of ice.
    
    
  • Place a towel between the skin and the bag of ice or frozen peas or corn to protect the skin.
    
    
  
  
• Rest
  
  
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, prolonged standing, or walking.
    
    
  • Crutches may be needed, or a special shoe to wear when walking to avoid putting weight on the fracture while it heals.
    
    
  
  

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