Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures

<!DOCTYPE HTML> <html lang="en-US"> <head> <meta charset="UTF-8"/> <title>Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures | AAFP</title> <meta name="description" content="Fractures of the toe are one of the most common lower extremity fractures diagnosed by family physicians. Toe fractures most frequently are caused by a crushing injury or axial force such as stubbing a toe. Joint hyperextension and stress fractures are less common. Most patients have point tenderness at the fracture site or pain with gentle axial loading of the digit. Anteroposterior and oblique radiographs generally are most useful for identifying fractures, determining displacement, and evaluating adjacent phalanges and digits. Referral is indicated in patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, significant soft tissue injury, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, or fractures of the first toe that are unstable or involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface. Most children with fractures of the physis should be referred, but children with selected nondisplaced Salter-Harris types I and II fractures may be treated by family physicians. Stable, nondisplaced toe fractures should be treated with buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement. Displaced fractures of the lesser toes should be treated with reduction and buddy taping. Patients with displaced fractures of the first toe often require referral for stabilization of the reduction."/> <meta name="template" content="aafp-article-page"/> <meta name="tags" content="aafp:taxonomy/afp/foot-and-ankle-disorders,aafp:publications/afp/article-types/feature,aafp:publications/filters/discipline/orthopedic,aafp:taxonomy/afp/musculoskeletal-care,aafp:taxonomy/afp/fractures,aafp:publications/filters/topic/musculoskeletal-care,aafp:publications/afp/topics/musculoskeletal-care/fracture-management,aafp:publications/afp/topics/procedures/fracture-management"/> <meta name="pubdate" content="2003-12-15"/> <meta name="nav-title" content="Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures"/> <meta name="category" content="Publications"/> <meta name="subcategory" content="American Family Physician"/> <meta content="American Family Physician" name="citation_journal_title"/> <meta content="afp" name="citation_journal_abbrev"/> <meta content="Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures" name="citation_title"/> <meta content="2003/12/15" name="citation_publication_date"/> <meta content="68" name="citation_volume"/> <meta content="12" name="citation_issue"/> <meta content="2413" name="citation_firstpage"/> <meta content="2418" name="citation_lastpage"/> <meta content="https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413.pdf" name="citation_pdf_url"/> <meta content="https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413.xml" name="citation_xml_url"/> <meta content="ROBERT L. HATCH" name="citation_author"/> <meta content="SCOTT HACKING" name="citation_author"/> <meta content="Family physicians can successfully manage most toe fractures, but referral is indicated for patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, and fractures of the first toe, which are prone to complications." name="citation_abstract"/> <meta content="True" name="citation_fulltext_world_readable"/>         <meta content="Musculoskeletal care" name="facet_topic"/> <meta content="Orthopedic" name="facet_discipline"/>   <link href="https://ssl.aafp.org" rel="preconnect" crossorigin/> <link href="https://img.aafp.net" rel="preconnect" crossorigin/> <link href="https://css.aafp.net" rel="preconnect" crossorigin/> <link href="https://js.aafp.net" rel="preconnect" crossorigin/> <link href="https://ui.aafp.net" rel="preconnect" crossorigin/> <link href="https://img.aafp.net" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://accdn.lpsnmedia.net" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://lptag.liveperson.net" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://www.google-analytics.com" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://stats.g.doubleclick.net" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://aafp.tt.omtrdc.net" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://www.facebook.com" rel="preconnect"/> <link href="https://connect.facebook.net" rel="preconnect"/> <script type="text/javascript"> function onDOMContentLoaded() { if (document) { //document.body.classList.remove("adl-page--hidden"); //document.body.classList.add("adl-page--loaded"); var classes = ''; if(classes !== ""){ classes.split(',').forEach((x, i) => document.body.classList.add(x)); } } } window.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", onDOMContentLoaded); window.isAEM = true; </script>  <script type="text/javascript"> (function(w,d,s,l,i){ w[l]=w[l]||[]; w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'}); var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:''; j.async=true; j.src= '//www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl; f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-PXLQG7'); </script>  <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1"/> <meta property="og:title" content="Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures"/> <meta property="og:description" content="Fractures of the toe are one of the most common lower extremity fractures diagnosed by family physicians. Toe fractures most frequently are caused by a crushing injury or axial force such as stubbing a toe. Joint hyperextension and stress fractures are less common. Most patients have point tenderness at the fracture site or pain with gentle axial loading of the digit. Anteroposterior and oblique radiographs generally are most useful for identifying fractures, determining displacement, and evaluating adjacent phalanges and digits. Referral is indicated in patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, significant soft tissue injury, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, or fractures of the first toe that are unstable or involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface. Most children with fractures of the physis should be referred, but children with selected nondisplaced Salter-Harris types I and II fractures may be treated by family physicians. Stable, nondisplaced toe fractures should be treated with buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement. Displaced fractures of the lesser toes should be treated with reduction and buddy taping. Patients with displaced fractures of the first toe often require referral for stabilization of the reduction."/> <meta property="og:image" content="https://www.aafp.org/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/cover.jpg"/> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413.html"/> <meta property="og:type" content="article"/> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image"/> <meta name="twitter:site" content="@aafp"/> <meta name="twitter:title" content="Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures"/> <meta name="twitter:description" content="Fractures of the toe are one of the most common lower extremity fractures diagnosed by family physicians. Toe fractures most frequently are caused by a crushing injury or axial force such as stubbing a toe. Joint hyperextension and stress fractures are less common. Most patients have point tenderness at the fracture site or pain with gentle axial loading of the digit. Anteroposterior and oblique radiographs generally are most useful for identifying fractures, determining displacement, and evaluating adjacent phalanges and digits. Referral is indicated in patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, significant soft tissue injury, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, or fractures of the first toe that are unstable or involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface. Most children with fractures of the physis should be referred, but children with selected nondisplaced Salter-Harris types I and II fractures may be treated by family physicians. Stable, nondisplaced toe fractures should be treated with buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement. Displaced fractures of the lesser toes should be treated with reduction and buddy taping. Patients with displaced fractures of the first toe often require referral for stabilization of the reduction."/> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://www.aafp.org/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/cover.jpg"/> <script src="https://code.jquery.com/jquery-1.8.3.min.js" integrity="sha256-YcbK69I5IXQftf/mYD8WY0/KmEDCv1asggHpJk1trM8=" crossorigin="anonymous"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://www.aafp.org/jsparse/AAFPUser.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://js.aafp.org/global/libs/utils.js"></script> <link rel="stylesheet" href="/etc.clientlibs/brand/aafp/clientlibs/clientlib-base.min.css" type="text/css"> <link rel="stylesheet" href="/apps/brand/aafp/clientlibs/responsive-grid.min.css" type="text/css"> <script type="module" src="https://ui.aafp.net/aafp-brand-components/2/components/aafp-web-components/aafp-web-components.esm.js"></script> <script nomodule="" src="https://ui.aafp.net/aafp-brand-components/2/components/aafp-web-components/aafp-web-components.js"></script> <script async="" src="//www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id=GTM-PXLQG7"></script> <script type="text/javascript"> try{ var prop14 = Utils.getWebLoginValue(); 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HATCH"},{"@type":"Person", "name":"SCOTT HACKING"}], "publisher": { "@type": "MedicalOrganization", "name": "American Academy of Family Physicians", "alternateName": "AAFP", "logo" : { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://www.aafp.org/syndication/images/logo.png" } }, "description": "Fractures of the toe are one of the most common lower extremity fractures diagnosed by family physicians. Toe fractures most frequently are caused by a crushing injury or axial force such as stubbing a toe. Joint hyperextension and stress fractures are less common. Most patients have point tenderness at the fracture site or pain with gentle axial loading of the digit. Anteroposterior and oblique radiographs generally are most useful for identifying fractures, determining displacement, and evaluating adjacent phalanges and digits. Referral is indicated in patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, significant soft tissue injury, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, or fractures of the first toe that are unstable or involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface. Most children with fractures of the physis should be referred, but children with selected nondisplaced Salter-Harris types I and II fractures may be treated by family physicians. Stable, nondisplaced toe fractures should be treated with buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement. Displaced fractures of the lesser toes should be treated with reduction and buddy taping. Patients with displaced fractures of the first toe often require referral for stabilization of the reduction." } </script> <meta name="referrer" content="no-referrer-when-downgrade"> <link href="https://ui.aafp.net/aafp-brand-components/2/assets/styles/journal-article-print-styles.css" rel="stylesheet"/> </head> <body> <aafp-live-person button-image="https://lpcdn.lpsnmedia.net/gallery/libraries/chat/images/assets/live-chat.png" alt-text="Leave a Message" button-id="liveperson-faff9738-fe67-4ef7-918c-cedac2151be7" site-key="87999442" class="adl-hide"></aafp-live-person> <div class="root responsivegrid"> <div class="aem-Grid aem-Grid--12 aem-Grid--default--12 "> <div class="aafp-google-tag-manager aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <noscript> <iframe src="//www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-PXLQG7" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"> </iframe> </noscript> </div> <div class="aafp-leaderboard-ad aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div 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</div> <div class="aafp-article-primary-content-container responsivegrid aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"><div class="adl-primary-content-container adl-space__sm__p-t-sm adl-space__sm__p-b-lg"> <div class="adl-grid adl-grid--no-padding"> <div class="adl-grid__col-sm-12 adl-grid__col-md-flex adl-space__md__p-r-sm adl-space__lg__p-r-md adl-space__sm__m-b-sm adl-space__md__m-b-none"> <div> <aafp-next-and-previous class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md" previous-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2409.html" previous-label-mobile="PREV" previous-label-desktop="PREV ARTICLE" next-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2422.html" next-label-mobile="NEXT" next-label-desktop="NEXT ARTICLE" parent-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215.html" parent-title="Dec 15, 2003"> </aafp-next-and-previous> <noscript> <a href="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2409.html">PREV</a> <a href="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215.html">Dec 15, 2003</a> <a href="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2422.html">NEXT</a> </noscript> </div> <article class="adl-space__sm__m-b-lg"> <header class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md"> <img class="adl-layout__screen-hide adl-layout__print-show adl-space__sm__m-b-md" style="display: block; max-height: 40px; max-width: 740px;" src="/content/dam/AAFP/images/logos_internal/afp-masthead-2024_old.jpg" alt="brand logo"/> <div> <aafp-journal-article-title-and-kicker article-title="Evaluation and Management of Toe Fractures"> </aafp-journal-article-title-and-kicker> </div> <div> <aafp-journal-article-supporting-links pdf-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413.pdf" comments-jump-link-target="#article-comment-area"> </aafp-journal-article-supporting-links> </div> <div class="adl-layout__sm-only adl-space__sm__m-t-sm adl-space__sm__m-b-md adl-layout__print-hide"> </div> <div class="aem-Grid aem-Grid--12 aem-Grid--default--12 "> <div class="aafp-byline aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <p class="adl-body adl-space__sm__m-t-xs adl-space__sm__m-b-sm"> ROBERT L. HATCH, M.D., M.P.H., AND SCOTT HACKING, M.D. </p> </div> </div> <div> <aafp-journal-article-information> <aafp-journal-article-information-item icon="info"> <p><i>Am Fam Physician.</i> 2003;68(12):2413-2418</p> </aafp-journal-article-information-item> </aafp-journal-article-information> </div> <nav class="adl-layout__sm-only adl-space__sm__m-v-md adl-layout__print-hide"> <h2 class="adl-block-heading">Article Sections</h2> <aafp-link-pile data-linked-list="[{"text":"Abstract","url":"#abstract"},{"text":"Anatomy","url":"#anatomy"},{"text":"Differential Diagnosis","url":"#differential-diagnosis"},{"text":"History and Physical Findings","url":"#history-and-physical-findings"},{"text":"Radiographic Findings","url":"#radiographic-findings"},{"text":"Indications for Referral","url":"#indications-for-referral"},{"text":"Treatment","url":"#treatment"},{"text":"Complications","url":"#complications"},{"text":"References","url":"#references"}]" data-linked-list-type="TEXT"> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Abstract" data-url="#abstract"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Anatomy" data-url="#anatomy"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Differential Diagnosis" data-url="#differential-diagnosis"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="History and Physical Findings" data-url="#history-and-physical-findings"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Radiographic Findings" data-url="#radiographic-findings"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Indications for Referral" data-url="#indications-for-referral"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Treatment" data-url="#treatment"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="Complications" data-url="#complications"> </aafp-link> </div> <div slot="data-links"> <aafp-link data-text="References" data-url="#references"> </aafp-link> </div> </aafp-link-pile> </nav> <div> <span id="abstract"></span> </div> <div> <div class="adl-abstract"> <p> <p>Fractures of the toe are one of the most common lower extremity fractures diagnosed by family physicians. Toe fractures most frequently are caused by a crushing injury or axial force such as stubbing a toe. Joint hyperextension and stress fractures are less common. Most patients have point tenderness at the fracture site or pain with gentle axial loading of the digit. Anteroposterior and oblique radiographs generally are most useful for identifying fractures, determining displacement, and evaluating adjacent phalanges and digits. Referral is indicated in patients with circulatory compromise, open fractures, significant soft tissue injury, fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, or fractures of the first toe that are unstable or involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface. Most children with fractures of the physis should be referred, but children with selected nondisplaced Salter-Harris types I and II fractures may be treated by family physicians. Stable, nondisplaced toe fractures should be treated with buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement. Displaced fractures of the lesser toes should be treated with reduction and buddy taping. Patients with displaced fractures of the first toe often require referral for stabilization of the reduction. </p> </p> </div> </div> <div class="aem-Grid aem-Grid--12 aem-Grid--default--12 "> </div> </header> <div class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md"> <div class="aem-Grid aem-Grid--12 aem-Grid--default--12 "> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Toe fractures are one of the most common fractures diagnosed by primary care physicians. In one rural family practice,<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b1">1</a></sup> toe fractures comprised 8 percent of 295 fractures diagnosed; in an Air Force family practice residency program,<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b2">2</a></sup> they made up 9 percent of 624 fractures treated. Published studies suggest that family physicians can manage most toe fractures with good results.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b1">1</a><span data-transform-type="sup-inbetween">,</span><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b2">2</a></sup> </p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="anatomy"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Anatomy</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>The first toe has only two phalanges; the second through the fifth toes generally have three, but the fifth toe sometimes can have only two <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f1">Figure 1</a>)</i>. Flexor and extensor tendons insert at the proximal portions of the middle and distal phalanges. These tendons may avulse small fragments of bone from the phalanges; they also can be injured when a toe is fractured. Abductor, interosseus, and adductor muscles insert at the proximal aspects of each proximal phalanx. The pull of these muscles occasionally exacerbates fracture displacement. Sesamoid bones generally are present within flexor tendons in the first toe <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f1">Figure 1</a>, top)</i> and are found less commonly in the flexor tendons of other toes. In children, a physis (i.e., cartilaginous growth center) is present in the proximal part of each phalanx <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f2">Figure 2</a>)</i>.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="differential-diagnosis"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Differential Diagnosis</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>The same mechanisms that produce toe fractures may cause a ligament sprain, contusion, dislocation, tendon injury, or other soft tissue injury. Radiographs often are required to distinguish these injuries from toe fractures. Stress fractures can occur in toes. They typically involve the medial base of the proximal phalanx and usually occur in athletes. Stress fractures have a more insidious onset and may not be visible on radiographs for the first two to four weeks after the injury.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="history-and-physical-findings"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>History and Physical Findings</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Most toe fractures are caused by an axial force (e.g., a stubbed toe) or a crushing injury (e.g., from a falling object). Joint hyperextension, a less common mechanism, may cause spiral or avulsion fractures. Common presenting symptoms include bruising, swelling, and throbbing pain that worsens with a dependent position, although this type of pain also may occur with an isolated subungual hematoma. Although tendon injuries may accompany a toe fracture, they are uncommon.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Physical examination should include assessment of capillary refill; delayed capillary refill may indicate circulatory compromise. The skin should be inspected for open wounds or significant injury that may lead to skin necrosis. The nail should be inspected for subungual hematomas and other nail injuries. Deformity of the digit should be noted; most displaced fractures and dislocations present with visible deformity. Nondisplaced fractures usually are less apparent; however, most patients with toe fractures have point tenderness over the fracture site. The localized tenderness of a contusion may mimic the point tenderness of a fracture. Application of a gentle axial loading force distal to the injury (i.e., compressing the distal phalanx toward the foot) may distinguish contusions from fractures. If this maneuver produces sharp pain in a more proximal phalanx, it suggests a fracture in that phalanx.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="radiographic-findings"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Radiographic Findings</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Radiographic studies of a toe should include anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique views <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f1">Figure 1</a>)</i>. A combination of anteroposterior and lateral views may be best to rule out displacement. However, overlying shadows often make the lateral view difficult to interpret <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f1">Figure 1</a>, center)</i>. In many cases, anteroposterior and oblique views are the most easily interpreted <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f1">Figure 1</a>, top and bottom)</i>.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f1" number-text="FIGURE 1." description="<p>Radiographic series showing spiral fracture of the proximal phalanx of the fourth toe. Note that this patient has an anatomic variant鈥攖he fifth toe has only two phalanges. (Left) Antero-posterior view. Angulation, shortening, and slight rotation are visible. Two normal sesamoid bones can be seen beneath the first metatarsal head. (Center) Lateral view. Overlying shadows make it difficult to discern the fourth toe and detect the mildly displaced fracture. (Right) Oblique view. Unlike the lateral view, this view clearly shows the fracture. It also provides another perspective to assess the degree of displacement.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f1.jpg"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Fractures of the lesser toes are four times as common as fractures of the first toe.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b3">3</a></sup> Most toe fractures are nondisplaced or minimally displaced. Comminution is common, especially with fractures of the distal phalanx. Displaced spiral fractures generally display shortening or rotation, whereas displaced transverse fractures may display angulation. In children, toe fractures may involve the physis <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f2">Figure 2</a>)</i>.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure0.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure0.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f2" number-text="FIGURE 2." description="<p>Displaced Salter-Harris type II frac ture of the proximal phalanx of a child's fifth toe Physis can be seen in the proximal aspect of the other phalanges.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f2.jpg"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Fractures of multiple phalanges are common <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f3">Figure 3</a>)</i>. Therefore, phalanges and digits adjacent to the fracture must be examined carefully; joint surfaces also must be examined for intra-articular fractures <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f3">Figure 3</a>)</i>. Patients with intra-articular fractures are more likely to develop long-term complications.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure1.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure1.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f3" number-text="FIGURE 3." description="<p>Nondisplaced transverse fracture of the proximal phalanx of the fourth toe, with a subtle intra-articular fracture of the proximal phalanx of the fifth toe. Without careful scrutiny of adjacent digits, the more problematic intra-articular fracture could be missed.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f3.jpg"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="indications-for-referral"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Indications for Referral</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Patients with circulatory compromise require emergency referral. Toe fractures of this type are rare unless there is an open injury or a high-force crushing or shearing injury. Patients with open toe fractures or fractures with overlying skin necrosis are at high risk for osteomyelitis. If there is a break in the skin near the fracture site, the wound should be examined carefully. If the wound communicates with the fracture site, the patient should be referred. In some practice sites, family physicians manage open toe fractures; a discussion about the management of this type of injury can be found elsewhere.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b3">3</a><span data-transform-type="sup-inbetween">,</span><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> Patients also may require referral because of delayed complications such as osteomyelitis from open fractures, persistent pain after healing, and malunion.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h3>FRACTURES OF THE FIRST TOE</h3><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Because of the first toe's role in weight bearing, balance, and pedal motion, fractures of this toe require referral much more often than other toe fractures. Deformity, decreased range of motion, and degenerative joint disease in this toe can impair a patient's functional ability.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Referral is recommended for patients with first-toe fracture-dislocations, displaced intra-articular fractures, and unstable displaced fractures (i.e., fractures that spontaneously displace when traction is released following reduction). Referral also is recommended for children with first-toe fractures involving the physis.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> These injuries may require internal fixation.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Referral should be strongly considered for patients with nondisplaced intra-articular fractures involving more than 25 percent of the joint surface <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f4">Figure 4</a>)</i>.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> These fractures may lose their position during follow-up. Even if the fragments remain nondisplaced, significant degenerative joint disease may develop.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> </p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure2.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure2.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f4" number-text="FIGURE 4." description="<p>Nondisplaced intra-articular fracture of the proximal phalanx of the first toe, with a less obvious, comminuted, nondisplaced fracture of the distal phalanx.</p><p>Reprinted with permission from Eiff MP, Hatch R, Calmbach WL. Fracture management for primary care. 2d ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2003:354.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f4.jpg"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Referral also should be considered for patients with other displaced first-toe fractures, unless the physician is comfortable with their management.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h3>FRACTURES OF THE LESSER TOES</h3><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Although referral rarely is required for patients with fractures of the lesser toes, referral is recommended for patients with open fractures, fracture-dislocations <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f5">Figure 5</a>)</i>, displaced intra-articular fractures, and fractures that are difficult to reduce. Referral is recommended for children with fractures involving the physis, except nondisplaced Salter-Harris type I and type II fractures <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f6">Figure 6</a>)</i>.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> </p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure3.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure3.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f5" number-text="FIGURE 5." description="<p>Fracture-dislocation of the fifth toe. The proximal phalanx is fractured, and the proximal interphalangeal joint is dislocated.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f5.jpg"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure4.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure4.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f6" number-text="FIGURE 6." description="<p>Salter-Harris classification of physeal injuries.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f6.gif"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Patients with unstable fractures and nondisplaced, intra-articular fractures of the lesser toes that involve more than 25 percent of the joint surface <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f3">Figure 3</a>)</i> usually do not require referral and can be managed using the methods described in this article.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="treatment"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Treatment</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h3>STABLE, NONDISPLACED FRACTURES</h3><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Patients with closed, stable, nondisplaced fractures can be treated with splinting and a rigid-sole shoe to prevent joint movement. To enhance comfort, some patients prefer to cut out the part of the shoe that overlies the fractured toe. A walking cast with a toe platform may be necessary in active children and in patients with potentially unstable fractures of the first toe.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>The preferred splinting technique is to buddy tape the affected toe to an adjacent toe <i>(<a href="#afp20031215p2413-f7">Figure 7</a>)</i>.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> Treatment should continue until point tenderness is resolved, usually at least three weeks (four weeks for fractures of the first toe). Taping may be necessary for up to six weeks if healing is slow or pain persists.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-figure aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure enlarge-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure5.enlarge.html" print-url="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413/jcr:content/root/aafp-article-primary-content-container/aafp_article_main_par/aafp_figure5.print.html" id="afp20031215p2413-f7" number-text="FIGURE 7." description="<p>Buddy taping of the second and third toes. Gauze padding is inserted between the toes to prevent maceration, and nail beds are exposed to avoid concealing rotational deformity.</p>"> <img src="/content/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2413-f7.gif"/> </aafp-journal-article-table-and-figure> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>To control pain and swelling, patients should apply ice and elevate the affected foot for the first few days after the injury. Patients should limit icing to 20 minutes per hour so that soft tissues will not be injured. Non-narcotic analgesics usually provide adequate pain relief. Narcotic analgesics may be necessary in patients with first-toe fractures, multiple fractures, or fractures requiring reduction.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>If an acute subungual hematoma is present (less than 24 hours old), decompression may relieve pain substantially. Despite theoretic risks of converting the injury to an open fracture, decompression is recommended by most experts.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b5">5</a></sup> Toenails should not be removed because they act as an external splint in patients with fractures of the distal phalanx.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>After the splint is discontinued, the patient should begin gentle range-of-motion (ROM) exercises with the goal of achieving the same ROM as the same toe on the opposite foot. Follow-up radiographs may be taken three to six weeks after the injury, but they generally do not influence treatment and probably are not necessary in nondisplaced toe fractures.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h3>DISPLACED FRACTURES OF LESSER TOES</h3><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Most displaced fractures of the lesser toes can be managed by family physicians if there are no indications for referral. Although adverse outcomes can occur with toe fractures,<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b3">3</a></sup> disability from displaced phalanx fractures is rare.<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b5">5</a></sup> </p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>After anesthetizing the toe with ice or a digital block, the physician holds the tip of the toe, applies longitudinal traction, and manipulates the bone fragments into proper position. In most cases, this is done by simply adjusting the direction of traction to correct any shortening, rotation, or malalignment. To unlock fragments, it may be necessary to exaggerate the deformity slightly as traction is applied or to manipulate the fragments with one hand while the other maintains traction. Following reduction, the nail bed of the fractured toe should lie in the same plane as the nail bed of the corresponding toe on the opposite foot. If it does not, rotational deformity should be suspected. Unless it is fairly subtle, rotational deformity should be corrected by further manipulation.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>The reduced fracture is splinted with buddy taping. Fracture position ideally will be maintained when traction is released, but in some cases the reduction can be held only with buddy taping. Referral is indicated if buddy taping cannot maintain adequate reduction.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h3>DISPLACED FRACTURES OF THE FIRST TOE</h3><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>Displaced fractures of the first toe generally are managed similarly to displaced fractures of the lesser toes. To minimize the possibility of future disability, the position of the bone fragments after reduction should be as close to anatomic as possible. If the reduction is unstable (i.e., the position is not maintained after traction is released), splinting should not be used to hold the reduction, and referral is indicated.</p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>To check proper alignment, radiographs should be taken immediately after reduction and again seven to 10 days after the injury (three to five days in children).<sup><a href="#afp20031215p2413-b4">4</a></sup> In patients with potentially unstable or intra-articular fractures of the first toe, follow-up radiographs should be taken weekly for two or three weeks to monitor fracture position. At the conclusion of treatment, radiographs should be repeated to document healing.</p> </div> </div> <div class="aafp-pin aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <span id="complications"></span> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p></p><h2>Complications</h2><p></p> </div> </div> <div class="cmp cmp-text aem-GridColumn aem-GridColumn--default--12"> <div class="adl-rte-wrapper adl-space__sm__m-t-none adl-space__sm__m-b-none"> <p>A common complication of toe fractures is persistent pain and a decreased tolerance for activity. Pain that persists longer than a few months may indicate malunion, which may limit a patient's future activities significantly. Toe fractures, especially intra-articular fractures, can result in degenerative joint disease, and osteomyelitis is a potential complication of open fractures.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div> <aafp-journal-article-author-info class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md" heading="Author Information" author-info="<p>ROBERT L. HATCH, M.D., M.P.H., is associate professor of community health and family medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville. He graduated from the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, and completed a family practice residency and a faculty-development fellowship at the Blackstone Family Practice Residency at the Medical College of Virginia, Black-stone.</p><p>SCOTT HACKING, M.D., is a first-year resident in the family medicine residency program at the University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, where he also received his medical degree.</p><p><i>The authors indicate that they do not have any conflicts of interest. Sources of funding: none reported</i>.</p><p><i>Address correspondence to Robert L. Hatch, M.D., M.P.H., Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida, P.O. Box 100222, Gainesville, FL 32610 (e-mail:<a href="mailto:hatch@dean.med.ufl.edu">hatch@dean.med.ufl.edu</a>). Reprints are not available from the authors</i>.</p>"> </aafp-journal-article-author-info> </div> <div> <span id="references"></span> </div> <div> <aafp-journal-article-references class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md" heading="Reference(s)" references="[{"anchorId":"afp20031215p2413-b1","label":"1.","text":"\u003cp\u003eHatch RL, Rosenbaum CI. Fracture care by family physicians. A review of 295 cases. \u003ci\u003eJ Fam Pract. \u003c/i\u003e 1994;38:238-44.\u003c/p\u003e","publicationType":"journal"},{"anchorId":"afp20031215p2413-b2","label":"2.","text":"\u003cp\u003eEiff MP, Saultz JW. Fracture care by family physicians. \u003ci\u003eJ Am Board Fam Pract. \u003c/i\u003e 1993;6:179-81.\u003c/p\u003e","publicationType":"journal"},{"anchorId":"afp20031215p2413-b3","label":"3.","text":"\u003cp\u003eSchnaue-Constantouris EM, Birrer RB, Grisafi PJ, Dellacorte MP. Digital foot trauma: emergency diagnosis and treatment. \u003ci\u003eJ Emerg Med. \u003c/i\u003e 2002;22:163-70.\u003c/p\u003e","publicationType":"journal"},{"anchorId":"afp20031215p2413-b4","label":"4.","text":"\u003cp\u003eEiff MP, Hatch R, Calmbach WL. Fracture management for primary care. 2d ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2003.\u003c/p\u003e","publicationType":"other"},{"anchorId":"afp20031215p2413-b5","label":"5.","text":"\u003cp\u003eArmagan OE, Shereff MJ. Injuries to the toes and metatarsals. \u003ci\u003eOrthop Clin North Am. \u003c/i\u003e 2001;32:1-10.\u003c/p\u003e","publicationType":"journal"}]"> </aafp-journal-article-references> <noscript> <ol> <li id="afp20031215p2413-b1" data-label="1."><p>Hatch RL, Rosenbaum CI. Fracture care by family physicians. A review of 295 cases. <i>J Fam Pract. </i> 1994;38:238-44.</p></li> <li id="afp20031215p2413-b2" data-label="2."><p>Eiff MP, Saultz JW. Fracture care by family physicians. <i>J Am Board Fam Pract. </i> 1993;6:179-81.</p></li> <li id="afp20031215p2413-b3" data-label="3."><p>Schnaue-Constantouris EM, Birrer RB, Grisafi PJ, Dellacorte MP. Digital foot trauma: emergency diagnosis and treatment. <i>J Emerg Med. </i> 2002;22:163-70.</p></li> <li id="afp20031215p2413-b4" data-label="4."><p>Eiff MP, Hatch R, Calmbach WL. Fracture management for primary care. 2d ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2003.</p></li> <li id="afp20031215p2413-b5" data-label="5."><p>Armagan OE, Shereff MJ. Injuries to the toes and metatarsals. <i>Orthop Clin North Am. </i> 2001;32:1-10.</p></li> </ol> </noscript> </div> </article>  <div class="adl-space__sm__m-b-md"> <aafp-comments data-id="article-comment-area" data-path="/content/aafp/afp/2003/1215/p2413" default-visibility-state="hidden" hide-ads-when-shown> </aafp-comments> </div> <div> <h2 class="adl-h2 adl-layout__print-hide">Continue Reading</h2> <aafp-journal-preview journal-is-current="false" journal-preview-title="Dec 15, 2003" journal-issue-date="Dec 15, 2003" flexible-image-width="true" previous-article-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2409.html" previous-article-title="What You Should Know About Post-traumatic Stress Disorder" next-article-link="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215/p2422.html" next-article-title="Routine Vitamin Supplementation to Prevent Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease: Recommendations and Rationale"> <aafp-cta-tertiary href="/pubs/afp/issues/2003/1215.html" label="View the full table of contents" 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