Foot and Toe Fractures

Foot and toe fractures are common injuries in children and can occur during everyday activities, sports, falls, or from objects falling onto the foot. Most fractures heal well without surgery and can be treated with protective footwear, casting, or other forms of immobilization while the bone heals. 

Foot fractures 

• Common causes include:  

• • Landing awkwardly from a jump or fall. 

• • Stepping on an uneven surface. 

• • Objects falling onto the foot. 

• Most foot fractures do not require surgery. 

• Treatment options may include:  

• • A short-leg walking cast. 

• • A walking boot. 

• • A hard-soled shoe. 

• Many children can begin weight bearing as soon as it is comfortable, although recommendations vary based on the specific fracture. 

• Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on activity restrictions and return to normal activities. 

Toe fractures 

• Commonly occur when:  

• • Stubbing a toe on furniture, doorframes, or other objects. 

• • Heavy objects fall onto the toes. 

• If the toe is significantly out of alignment, it may be:  

• • Numbed and repositioned, then 

• • Treated with buddy taping and a hard-soled shoe. 

• Surgery is rarely needed but may be recommended for:  

• • Poorly aligned fractures. 

• • Open fractures, such as a fracture associated with a wound near the toenail. 

• Open fractures may require:  

• • Cleaning of the injury. 

• • Antibiotics. 

• • Surgical fixation of the fracture.