Running with a broken toe is generally not recommended. Even a small fracture affects how your foot absorbs pressure, and the repeated impact from running can worsen the injury, delay healing, or cause the bone to shift out of place. Most people experience sharp pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty pushing off the ground, all of which make running uncomfortable and risky. Continuing to run can also change your gait, which may lead to new problems in the foot, ankle, knee, or hip. A broken toe usually needs rest, protection, and sometimes immobilization to heal properly. For mild fractures, buddy taping and wearing a stiff-soled shoe may be enough. More complex injuries require medical guidance. Listening to your body and allowing time for recovery gives you the best chance to return to activity safely. If you suspect a toe fracture or the pain is not improving, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and proper care.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Practicing yoga can help prevent aching feet by stretching, strengthening, and improving circulation in the lower extremities. Hero’s pose stretches the arches and ankles, relieving tension from prolonged standing or walking. Finger threading involves interlacing toes to increase flexibility and mobility in the toes and forefoot. Downward dog elongates the calves and plantar fascia, reducing strain on the heels and arches. The squat position strengthens the muscles supporting the arches and improves balance. Additionally, toe balance exercises focus on lifting and spreading toes to enhance stability and prevent cramping. A podiatrist can provide guidance on proper technique, recommend additional stretches, and assess foot structure to prevent pain. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on relief tips, which may include additional yoga poses.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching the Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Great ways to stretch your feet:
Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation that damages the joints in the feet, leading to visible disfigurements and pain. Over time, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, weakening soft tissues and causing bones to shift out of place. This may result in toes drifting toward one side, collapsed arches, bunion formation, or claw-like deformities. These changes often make walking difficult and finding comfortable shoes challenging. Early treatment helps slow joint damage and reduce discomfort. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pressure and improve stability. In advanced cases, surgical correction may be needed to restore function and alignment. If you suffer from painful rheumatoid arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective relief options.
Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Gary Cesar of Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
Swelling and pain in the feet
Stiffness in the feet
Pain on the ball or sole of feet
Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
