Toe Fracture | Te Whatu Ora | Health New Zealand | Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty
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Toe Fracture

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What has happened?

  • You have broken one of your toes - this is a common type of fracture

What should I expect?

  • This should heal within 6 weeks without issue, but may not feel completely normal for several months
  • The pain and swelling should improve over several weeks

What should I do?

  • Swelling is often worse at the end of the day and elevating your foot up on a stool or chair will help this
  • You will be given a moon boot or 'darco shoe' to wear. Some will be able to walk on this without crutches but others may find it easier to use these to start
  • You can walk on the foot as much as you feel able to, and you can take the moon boot off when you feel comfortable to do so, you do not need to see a doctor before doing this
  • You may need to take some simple pain relief such as paracetamol and ibuprofen in the first few days after injury

What should I not do?

  • There are no specific limitations on what you can and cannot do
  • Try to reduce or stop smoking as this may delay bone healing

Will I be followed up?

  • Please see you GP in approximately 6 weeks. If they are concerned about your healing then they can repeat an x-ray
  • You will not be followed up by orthopaedics

What if I have concerns/questions?

  • If your injury is not settling or you have other concerns, you should see your GP first - take your ACC form/number with you