Monday, 1 October 2012

CommonToe Problems



Nasty toe sprains can cause numbness in toes from jamming your foot when coming to a sudden stop or landing in an awkward position causing your toes to jam in the end of your shoes. The most common occurrences are from sporting activities including walking, running, dancing and even stubbing your toe in the dark.

Although a sprained toe will heal on their own over time, it is essential for a faster recovery to apply the following treatment to the sprained toe:
Ice to the affect toe using an ice pack or frozen vegetable bag wrapped in a towel. Apply the towel directly to the toe for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours. Do not apply the ice directly to the skin as this will cause more harm.

Compression – If your big toe has been sprained then you will be able to use a compression bandage and wrap the toe to reduce the swelling in your toe. Make sure you do not wrap the bandage too tight as you will cut off the circulation of blood flow to the toe.
Elevate the affected toe above you heart by lying down and propping your foot up with pillows. This will help to reduce the swelling in the sprained toe.

Be sure to rest your affected toe during the first few days of the injury as this will help you to recover faster. In most cases a minor toe sprain can heal within 2-6 weeks with the appropriate treatment.

If you have to move around while still injured then try taping the affected toe to the uninjured toe next to it. Wrap gauze tape or a compression bandage around the two toes to help immobilize the injured toe.