how do i know if my toe is broken

To know if a toe is broken, key signs and symptoms to watch for include severe or throbbing pain that may worsen with movement, swelling, bruising that can spread beyond the toe, and difficulty or inability to move the toe normally. The toe may also appear crooked, bent, or misaligned compared to the other toes. Other signs include numbness or tingling, and pain that does not improve or gets worse after a few days. Hearing a snap or pop at the time of injury can also indicate a fracture. If the skin is broken or the bone is protruding, it is a medical emergency. In contrast, a bruised toe usually maintains its alignment and shape and the pain tends to improve within a few days with rest and ice. A sprained toe may still have some mobility, although it can be painful, but a broken toe often feels rigid and difficult to move. If any of these signs of a broken toe are present, especially severe pain, misalignment, or immobility, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis (often involving an X-ray) and treatment, which may include buddy taping or, in severe cases, casting or surgery.