Foot Fractures

With 26 bones in a single foot, almost any of them can be broken. Many foot fractures do not require surgery or even a cast as they will heal on their own with some support. When a foot is fractured, the site of the fracture is usually painful and swollen. The location of the fracture will determine the course of treatment.

Causes

Bones usually break when something happens to crush, bend, twist, or stretch the bone.

• Toes are often broken when you accidentally kick something hard.
• Heels are often broken when you fall from a height and land on your feet.
• Other bones in the foot sometimes break when you twist or sprain an ankle.

Our Approach

It is important to see a doctor any time you think you may have broken a bone in your foot. Please go immediately to an emergency department.

For less severe injuries your doctor may want to see you in the office or may recommend you visit the emergency room. If you think you have broken your foot and your doctor is not available by phone, it is reasonable to go to the emergency department to be examined.