You’re walking across your room late at night, half-asleep when your foot forcefully meets the edge of your dresser. As you clutch your foot, the instant pain that follows is all too familiar. However, this time it feels much more severe. As you lie back down, you find that you can’t seem to get back to sleep. The pain in your toe is excruciating.
If you identify with this situation, chances are this isn’t your average toe stub. What you’re experiencing is probably a broken toe.
Broken Toe Causes
- Blunt Force: Your toe may break when it has undergone trauma, such as a blunt force or dropping something on your toe. The scenario mentioned at the outset falls into this category. When your toe is subject to blunt force such as an unexpected bend, it will break, resulting in severe pain.
- Stress Fracture: As stress fractures only make up 2% of sports-related injuries, they often go overlooked. Many athletes feel that their foot is only sore and continue to play, worsening the fracture. A stress fracture occurs when a thin crack develops in the bone from repetitive movement. Patients will feel a deep pain in the toe, typically in the second or third metatarsal, or the long bones in your foot.
Why Use Compression Socks for a Broken Toe
An essential part of treating a broken toe is to use compression. Here are a few reasons why you should use compression socks when you have a broken toe:
- Increases Blood Flow: Compression socks apply gentle pressure to the calves and ankles, causing them to contract and relax. When this movement happens in the muscles, it stimulates blood flow throughout the foot. Increased blood flow delivers nutrients to the broken toe, aiding in a speedy recovery.
- Decreases Swelling and Pain: Compression socks help to reduce swelling in the foot. By limiting the fluid build-up, compression socks help to alleviate pain and tension placed on the nerves.
How To Choose Compression Socks for a Broken Toe
Compression socks with light-strength pressure can be purchased without a prescription. If you feel that you need stronger compression, your doctor can prescribe these to you.
You may be prescribed knee, thigh, or waist-high socks, depending on your condition. Patients also can choose whether to have open or closed socks and even decide on the color.
Before making a final decision on compression socks, be sure to consult your doctor. Compression socks come in various lengths and sizes, and they can help you choose the right pair for your injury.
Visit Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle for Treatment
If you suspect that the pain in your foot is from a broken toe, you don’t have to try healing it on your own. Come in to see our highly qualified team of doctors to start a treatment plan that will have you back on your feet before you know it.
To make an appointment, give us a call or fill out our online contact form. A member of our staff will contact you shortly!