Big Toe Consultant Advice

Video introduction from Mr Adam Lomax Consultant Surgeon:

Great Toe

Hello, I’m Mr. Lomax, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon. I regularly treat patients with injuries like yours. I’m here to explain the details of your injury, the treatment required, and your recovery plan.

You have sustained a fracture of your big toe. An example of this type of injury is shown on the screen. This is a common injury that will heal naturally over a period of about six weeks. Pain and swelling are common in the early stages, and it may take up to three months for these symptoms to resolve. You may need painkillers and anti-inflammatories, especially during the early stages. More information on this can be found in Phase 1 of your rehabilitation package.

You may have been given a walker boot or special shoe. This is for your comfort only and does not aid in the healing process. You should walk on your foot as pain allows. If you’ve been provided with strapping for your toe, it should remain in place for about two weeks. Please avoid getting the strapping wet. For further guidance on applying and removing the walker boot, please refer to the walker boot video.

You can start driving again once you are no longer wearing the walker boot, can perform an emergency stop, and are able to manoeuvre your car safely. You may return to work when you feel comfortable and safe to do so.

How to fit your walker boot

The walker boot is worn for minimum of 2 weeks.

Your recovery

These links will guide you through a number of rehabilitation exercises to help you recover from your injury. You will need to follow them in the correct order.

PHASE 1 (0 to 2 weeks) PHASE 2 (2 to 4 weeks) PHASE 3 (4 to 6 weeks) PHASE 4 (6 weeks onwards)
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