Should You See a Doctor for a Stubbed Toe Injury?

The toe was caught in the door?

When standing at the door, the door was forcefully slammed shut by a child, pinching the little toe in the gap at the bottom.
The little toe is swollen to a size larger than all the other toes except for the big toe, with bruising.
It hurts when standing, walking, wearing shoes, squatting, or even lying down and touching the bed.
Should medical attention be sought? If so, which specialty should be consulted? Thank you.

Guo Xiaojie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/19

Dr. Peng Xianwen reply Surgery

Further evaluation is needed to check for any fractures and to assess if there is any damage to the nails.
It is recommended to visit a surgical department.
Director Peng Hsien-Wen at Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/09/19

More Info

When it comes to a stubbed toe injury, especially one that results in significant swelling, bruising, and pain, it is generally advisable to seek medical attention. The symptoms you describe—swelling that makes your little toe larger than the others, bruising, and pain during various activities—suggest that there may be more than just a simple stub.

Why You Should See a Doctor
1. Possible Fracture: The force from a door slamming on your toe can cause a fracture, even if you can still move it. Fractures in the toe can sometimes be subtle and may not be immediately obvious without an X-ray. If the pain is severe and the swelling does not subside, it is crucial to rule out a fracture.

2. Infection Risk: If there is any break in the skin or if the toenail is damaged, there is a risk of infection. Signs of infection include increased redness, warmth, swelling, and discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should see a doctor promptly.

3. Proper Treatment: A healthcare professional can provide appropriate treatment, which may include pain management, advice on how to care for the injury, and possibly immobilization of the toe if necessary. They can also guide you on whether you need to buddy tape the toe (taping it to the adjacent toe for support) or if you need a more structured support.

Which Doctor to See
For a stubbed toe injury, you can start by seeing a primary care physician or an urgent care doctor. If the injury is severe or if there are complications, they may refer you to an orthopedic specialist who focuses on bones and joints. In some cases, a podiatrist (a doctor specializing in foot and ankle issues) may also be appropriate, especially if the injury involves the foot structure or if you have ongoing issues with foot pain.

What to Expect During Your Visit
- Physical Examination: The doctor will examine your toe and foot, checking for signs of fracture, dislocation, or infection.

- Imaging: If necessary, they may order an X-ray to assess for fractures.

- Treatment Plan: Depending on the findings, the doctor may recommend rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the RICE method) for swelling. They may also provide pain relief options, such as over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Home Care Tips
While waiting for your appointment or if the injury seems mild, you can follow these home care tips:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured toe.

- Ice: Apply ice packs wrapped in a cloth to the toe for 15-20 minutes every hour to reduce swelling.

- Compression: If advised by a healthcare provider, you can gently wrap the toe to provide support.

- Elevation: Keep your foot elevated to help reduce swelling.

Conclusion
In summary, given the symptoms you are experiencing, it is wise to see a doctor to ensure that there are no serious injuries like fractures or infections. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure proper healing. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to injuries, especially those involving the bones and joints.

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