From the Research
For a non-displaced fracture of the toe, the most effective treatment option is to use buddy taping and a rigid-sole shoe to limit joint movement, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1. This approach is supported by the fact that most toe fractures heal reliably when the bone ends remain aligned, allowing natural bone healing processes to occur effectively. The treatment typically involves:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation to reduce pain and inflammation
- Gentle compression with buddy taping to immobilize the injured toe
- Wearing wide, supportive shoes with a stiff sole to minimize toe movement
- Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce inflammation
- Monitoring for signs of complications, such as worsening pain, skin color changes, numbness, or delayed healing It's essential to seek medical attention if any of these complications occur, as they may indicate a need for further evaluation or alternative treatment. The study by 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence for the treatment of non-displaced toe fractures, and its recommendations should be prioritized in clinical practice. Other studies, such as 2, 3, 4, and 5, provide additional information on the diagnosis and management of foot fractures, but their recommendations are either outdated or less relevant to the specific question of non-displaced toe fractures.