A broken foot often requires immediate medical attention. It generally causes severe pain and discomfort and can happen for a variety of reasons. These include a foot injury, twisting it well beyond its normal range of motion, or an accident. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. If the foot is severely fractured, a bone may protrude from the skin, appearing to be displaced. A mildly broken foot may be confused with a sprain, because the two types of injuries share similar symptoms. Some patients hear a popping sound, which is often indicative of a broken foot, rather than a sprained ankle. A proper diagnosis can confirm a broken foot by having an X-ray taken. Treatment can begin by having a cast put on the affected foot, which is helpful in providing stability as the healing process occurs. Crutches are often recommended to use while the foot is in a cast, helping the patient to remain mobile. If you have broken your foot, please call a podiatrist’s office as quickly as possible for proper treatment techniques.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
- Bruising
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Blue in color
- Numbness
- Cold
- Misshapen
- Cuts
- Deformities
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.