Have you recently dropped something on your foot or accidentally run into a bedpost, table leg, or doorframe? These are common causes of injuring bones in the foot. A broken bone may result especially when swelling and pain develop. If swelling and pain persists for a few days, a trip to your podiatrist is recommended for x-rays and evaluation.
X-rays allow the doctor to view the alignment of your bones and create a treatment plan. If the fractured ends of the bone do not match up, your podiatrist may need to realign the bones in their office or with surgery. Many times your doctor will be able to restore alignment simply by moving your toe. Surgery for a fracture in the foot is uncommon and used for severe misalignment only.
Generally, broken bones require immobilization. This can be achieved through cast, splint, hard-soled shoe, tapping technique or a walking boot. Casts, splints, and walking boots are used when the entire foot needs to be immobilized. Hard-soled shoes or tapping is reserved for broken toes and smaller injuries. All devices prevent weight and movement from reinjuring the bones. This allows the bones to heal and return to their normal condition.
With any broken bone, it is easier and more efficient to correct a newly fracture before healing can occur. Better post treatment alignment will be achieved and your bone will return to its original shape. If you injured your foot and it is not getting better, consider seeing your doctor after a few days of pain or swelling for treatment.