A broken toe can happen suddenly and cause intense pain right away. Dropping a heavy object on the foot is a leading cause. A badly stubbed toe or missed step can also break one of the small toe bones. Repeated impact on hard surfaces can lead to a stress fracture, which is a small crack in the bone. Signs of a broken toe include swelling, bruising, and pain while walking. Some patients hear a cracking or popping sound when the injury happens. Being able to walk does not mean the toe is not broken.

Some toe fractures are more serious than others. A crooked or deformed toe can indicate that the broken bone has moved out of its normal position. An injury that breaks the skin also requires prompt attention. Big-toe fractures can be especially important because the big toe plays a major role in balance and movement. Treatment can include a splint or buddy taping, which secures the injured toe to the toe beside it. More serious fractures can require a cast or surgery. With proper care, many broken toes heal within four to six weeks.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine the location and severity of the break. Imaging can help show whether the bone remains properly aligned. A podiatrist can stabilize the toe and monitor healing so that the bone does not heal in the wrong position. Proper treatment can also reduce the risk of lasting pain, joint stiffness, or problems involving the toenail. In some cases, arthritis can develop in the injured joint later in life. If you have broken your toe,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Phyllis Weinstein, DPM from California. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Temple City, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot and ankle pain while running is often the result of overuse injuries. These occur when repetitive stress exceeds the body’s ability to recover. The foot and ankle absorb significant impact with each step, making them vulnerable to strain and inflammation. Recognizing the definition of running related injuries can help individuals take preventive measures and maintain consistent activity levels without discomfort.

Symptoms can vary depending on the condition, but often include localized pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Some runners experience a dull ache that intensifies with activity, while others feel sharp pain during specific movements. Risk factors include over-training, wearing worn-out shoes, and having biomechanical imbalances like flat feet or high arches. Inadequate recovery time between runs can also increase the likelihood of injury. These factors contribute to several common types of foot and ankle conditions seen in runners.

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia and is typically felt as heel pain that is worse after periods of rest. Achilles tendinitis causes discomfort along the back of the ankle and may feel tight or sore during movement. An ankle sprain results from a sudden twist or roll of the joint, leading to pain, swelling, and instability. Additionally, a stress fracture is a small break in the bone that develops gradually and produces a persistent, localized pain that worsens with weight bearing. Each condition affects runners differently but is linked to repetitive strain and mechanical stress.

Preventing foot and ankle pain requires a balanced approach that includes wearing proper footwear, gradual increases in training, and attention to body mechanics. Stretching, strengthening, and rest are important components of injury prevention and recovery. Awareness of risk factors allows runners to make informed decisions about their training routines. If you enjoy running and have developed foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions and prevention tips.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Phyllis Weinstein, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Temple City, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Chronic ingrown toenails can significantly affect mobility and overall foot comfort, especially when left untreated. This condition occurs when the nail edge presses into the surrounding skin, leading to inflammation and possible infection. While mild cases may respond to home care, persistent or severe cases often require surgery to correct. The Winograd procedure is a well-established method that targets the root cause by removing part of the nail. This prevents regrowth in the affected area, offering a reliable long-term solution.

Common symptoms that lead patients to seek this type of foot surgery include ongoing pain, swelling, and redness. Discharge along the nail border is another factor. These symptoms can worsen and interfere with walking, exercise, and footwear choices. Several risk factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. Among them are improper nail cutting techniques, wearing narrow or tight shoes, and repeated pressure from running or standing. Genetic nail shape may also contribute. Identifying these factors is key to both treatment and prevention.

During the Winograd procedure, a podiatrist administers a local anesthetic to ensure comfort throughout the process. A small section of the ingrown nail and the underlying growth tissue is carefully removed. By addressing the nail matrix, the procedure reduces the chance of recurrence. The treated area is then bandaged, and patients receive instructions for proper aftercare. Healing typically progresses smoothly, with minimal downtime and noticeable improvement in symptoms within days.

Surgery is often recommended for patients who experience repeated ingrown toenails or complications such as infection. It provides lasting relief and supports better foot health. Early intervention can prevent further discomfort and complications. If you are dealing with recurring ingrown toenails, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Phyllis Weinstein, DPM of California. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Temple City, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toe pain is a frequent concern that can result from injury, pressure, or underlying toenail problems. The toenail is a complex structure made up of four key parts, including the nail plate, nail matrix, nail bed, and nail folds. Each of these components plays a role in nail growth and protection. Disorders can affect any of these areas, leading to discomfort and visible changes. Understanding the definition of toe pain and how toenail structures function can help identify early signs of problems and guide proper care.

Symptoms of toenail disorders often include pain, discoloration, thickening, or changes in nail shape. Deformities refer to visible changes in the nail’s structure, such as curving or lifting from the nail bed. Dystrophies involve changes in texture, including brittleness or rough surfaces. Individuals may also experience swelling or redness around the nail folds, especially if infection is present. These symptoms can affect walking comfort and may worsen without timely attention.

Risk factors for toe pain and toenail problems include wearing tight footwear, repeated trauma, and poor foot hygiene. Conditions such as fungal infections or ingrown toenails can also contribute to discomfort. Damage to the nail matrix can alter nail growth, while issues with the nail bed may affect attachment and stability. Additional causes include excessive moisture, improper nail trimming, and underlying health conditions. These factors can disrupt normal nail function and increase the likelihood of chronic problems.

Maintaining healthy toenails involves proper hygiene, careful trimming, and wearing well-fitted shoes that reduce pressure on the toes. Regular inspection of the nails can help detect early changes and prevent complications. Addressing symptoms promptly can support long-term foot health and comfort. If you have toenail problems or persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Phyllis Weinstein, DPM of California. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Temple City, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.