Toe injuries are very common, therefore, knowing the difference between a sprained toe versus a broken toe is necessary. The pain that results from a toe injury can be very uncomfortable. Forget about running and jumping. The discomfort from an injured toe will not allow you to walk normally or wear your usual shoes. On the other hand, the good thing about these injuries is that they are usually not very serious, and they do not require complex treatment or an overnight stay at the hospital.
Toe injuries can occur for many different reasons
They do not necessarily require intense physical activity and can often happen accidentally, at home. Badly positioned pieces of furniture, a doorstep, or a slip in the bathroom are more than enough.
A sprained toe is the most common of these injuries. It is painful and can result in a swollen and tender toe. However, this does not mean that your toe is broken. A sprain only means that the ligaments around the toe are damaged or torn.
The similarity of symptoms between the sprained and the broken toe often leave people with toe injuries confused and worried. In this article, we will explain how you can know the difference.
Sprained Toe
A sprained toe is a common result of overstretching. As a result, the ligaments that protect toe joints, and enable their mobility, become damaged, inflamed, and painful. The big toe has two of these joints, while the other four toes have three each.
A sprained toe can still be moved but its mobility is usually limited. Basic symptoms of a sprained toe are:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
These symptoms vary in intensity depending on the severity of the damage done to the ligaments. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons classifies toe sprains into three categories:
- Mild toe sprain – the ligament is stretched without tearing. Pain and swelling are minimal.
- Moderate toe sprain – a partial tear of the ligament is present. Pain, swelling, and bruising are more intense.
- Severe toe sprain – The ligament is completely torn. Severe pain and swelling are present.
Broken Toe
A broken toe means that one of the toe bones is cracked or fractured. When this happens, ligaments can remain intact.
The symptoms of a broken toe vs a sprained toe are very similar
The symptoms of a broken toe vs a sprained toe are very similarOf course, there are some minor differences. Pain, swelling, and bruising are common. However, a broken toe is usually stiff and harder (or impossible) to move. Sometimes, when the broken bone moves out of its place, the toe can also look deformed.
Some types of injuries are more likely to result in a broken toe
For example, if a heavy object falls on your toe it is less likely that it will become strained and more likely that it is broken, regardless of the symptoms.
Still, there are many causes of toe injuries that can result in both sprained and broken toe. Therefore, it is always better to visit a doctor and let a simple x-ray solve the mystery.
The Treatment
Resting is the primary treatment for all toe injuries. It is not recommended to move too much because walking can cause swelling and pain to increase in intensity. Ice packs can help you to relieve the swelling. Elevating your foot is a good idea too. For extra support, use medical tape to attach the injured toe to the nearby healthy toe.
These methods are normally enough for mild and moderate sprains. For more serious injuries, however, the use of a walking boot, crutches, and various pain relievers might be necessary.
The Final Word about a Sprained toe vs a broken toe injury
Toe injuries are common but usually not very serious. Most can be treated at home. However, if you have suffered a toe injury and are experiencing pain, the best thing you can do is to seek medical assistance. Regardless of the causes and symptoms, the correct diagnosis can only be established by an orthopedic specialist.
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