Foot injuries are common, and it can be tough to know whether you’re dealing with something minor or a fracture. It’s important to recognize the signs of a broken foot so you can get the treatment you need.
This article will help you understand how to tell if you broke your foot and when to seek medical attention. We’ll also touch on the differences between a sprain and a fracture, as misdiagnosing the injury can lead to further complications.
Primary Indicators: Pain and Swelling
The first signs that something might be seriously wrong are pain and swelling.
Immediate and Intense Pain
If you’ve fractured a bone in your foot, you’ll likely notice the pain right away. It may be intense, and it may throb or ache. Sometimes, though, the pain comes and goes, so don’t rule out a fracture just because the pain isn’t constant.
Swelling and Bruising
Swelling around the injured area is also common. You may also see bruising, which can be a sign of a more severe injury.
Other symptoms to look out for
- Tenderness: If touching your foot near the area of the injury causes significant pain, that’s a key symptom.
- Deformity: A broken foot can sometimes look like it’s out of alignment.
- Difficulty bearing weight: If you can’t put weight on the injured foot, or if doing so is very difficult, seek medical attention immediately.
- Crepitus: This is a crunching sound or sensation when you move your foot.
Sprain vs. fracture: How to tell if it’s a broken bone
A sprain is an injury to the ligaments, the soft tissues that connect your bones. A fracture, on the other hand, is a break in the bone itself.
With a sprain, you’ll probably have some pain and swelling, but you may still be able to put some weight on the foot.
When to see a doctor
If you’re unsure of the nature of your injury, it’s always best to seek medical attention. See a doctor right away if you can’t put any weight on the foot, if you have numbness in your foot, if you see signs of infection, or if you’re in a lot of pain.
What causes foot fractures?
Foot fractures are usually caused by accidents, falls, or direct blows from heavy objects. Twisting your foot the wrong way can also lead to a fracture. Stress fractures are often the result of overuse.
You may be at higher risk for a broken foot if you:
- Play high-impact sports
- Wear shoes that don’t fit or give you enough support
- Suddenly increase your activity level
- Work in a job where you’re at risk for foot injuries
- Have a health condition like osteoporosis that weakens your bones
Potential complications and treatment
If you do have a broken foot, it’s important to get it treated promptly, both to relieve your pain and to avoid complications down the road. Some of the complications of a fractured foot include:
- Chronic pain
- Arthritis
- Deformity
- Infection
Foot fracture treatment varies quite a bit, depending on where the fracture is located and how severe it is. Your doctor may recommend a cast, percutaneous fixation, open fixation, external fixation, or traction.
In Closing
Knowing the signs of a foot fracture is essential. If you think you might have broken a bone in your foot, see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Taking steps to prevent future fractures is always a good idea, too.