what to do for a broken big toe

If you have a broken big toe, it is important to rest and keep your foot immobile whenever possible. For the first 24 hours, you should ice your toe for 20 minutes at a time. Buddy taping your injured toe to the toe next to it can help keep it stable, and wearing a stiff-bottomed shoe or a post-surgery shoe can prevent the toe from moving and provide more room for swelling. Severe injuries may require a cast or surgery. You can manage pain from a broken toe with over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen. Most broken toes will heal on their own within 4 to 6 weeks with proper care at home, but if the fracture is severe, proper healing might require a cast or surgery. If you suspect you have a broken toe, it is important to see a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and follow their instructions about caring for the injury to encourage the healing process.