Heres what you should know.

Yes, see somebody if you think you have a broken toe.

Most people break a toe bystubbing itor dropping something on it, according to theMayo Clinic.

BrokenToes

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Its important to get your toe assessed because all broken toes are not alike.

What can you expect from broken toe treatment?

The severity of your break affects the kind of broken toe treatment you need.

Your doctor may put you in a walking boot for a few weeks, Dr. Bayes says.

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Big toe breaks may need a cast or a splint to heal, according to theU.S.

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Other severe breaks are those that cause the toe to look crooked, according to theU.S.

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Broken toe skin can expose toe bones to air, Dr. Guss says.

This increases your risk of infection in the bone, theMayo Clinicexplains, because bacteria can get in.

A few other indicators that you should get broken toe treatment immediately?

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See if you’re able to put weight on that foot.

What does at-home broken toe treatment look like?

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The pain will typically go away within a week or so, per theU.S.

National Library of Medicine, but there are ways to manage it in the meantime.

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The swelling also typically goes down within a week, according to theU.S.

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(Just dont ice your skin directlywrap the ice in a towel or something to protect yourself.)

And wear any special shoe your doctor advises to accommodate swelling.

A broken toe can cause bruising that lasts up to two weeks, per theU.S.

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How long does it take a broken toe to heal?

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(Serious breaks might need multiple follow-ups.)

And remember, dont feel like youre being overdramatic by seeing someone in the first place.

Your toes are important!

As Dr. Bayes puts it, This is a legitimate reason for going to the doctor.