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Common Causes and Care for a Broken Pinky Toe

A broken pinky toe is a frequent injury because this small outer toe is especially vulnerable to being stubbed against furniture or crushed during daily activities. Its position on the edge of the foot leaves it less protected from direct impact. Common symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight. In some mild cases, taping the injured toe to the adjacent toe may provide support, but proper evaluation is important to confirm alignment and rule out complications. Risk factors include participation in sports, walking barefoot, environmental problems, like poor lighting, and reduced bone strength. A podiatrist can diagnose the fracture, recommend appropriate treatment, and guide healing. If you have injured or broken your pinky toe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Paula F. Angelini, DPM from Board Certified Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is a Broken Toe?
A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
- Swelling
- Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
- Stiffness
- Nail Injury
Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Attleboro, Foxborough, Southborough, and Sudbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercises Can Help With Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick band of tissue supporting the arch becomes irritated from repeated strain. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp heel pain first thing in the morning or after long periods of standing. Specific exercises can play an important role in recovery because they gently lengthen tight calf muscles, improve flexibility in the arch, and strengthen the small stabilizing muscles of the foot. Improving motion and strength helps reduce the pulling force placed on the heel while walking. A podiatrist evaluates foot structure, walking mechanics, and contributing risk factors before recommending a precise exercise program. These stretching and strengthening plans can be adjusted over time as symptoms improve. Medical treatments may be added to decrease inflammation and protect the tissue while it heals. If you have foot pain related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Paula F. Angelini, DPM from Board Certified Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Attleboro, Foxborough, Southborough, and Sudbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
