July 2025

A toe fracture in children is a break in one of the small bones of the toes, often caused by stubbing the toe, dropping a heavy object on the foot, or sports injuries. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or wearing shoes. Risk factors include active play, participation in sports, and not wearing protective footwear. If untreated, toe fractures can affect bone growth or lead to long-term problems. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury with a physical exam and imaging, then recommend proper care to ensure healing. If your child has toe pain or you suspect a fracture, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for expert evaluation and treatment to protect growing feet.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Lower limb salvage surgery is performed to avoid limb loss when there is severe damage to the foot or leg. This may be necessary due to infection, trauma, poor circulation, or complications from conditions, such as diabetes. The goal of this type of surgery is to remove diseased or damaged tissue while preserving as much function and structure as possible. Procedures may include cleaning infected areas, reconstructing bone or soft tissue, or improving blood flow. Recovery often requires close monitoring, wound care, and rehabilitation to support healing and restore movement. This approach can improve quality of life and mobility, especially when combined with lifestyle changes and proper ongoing care. Every case is different, and success depends on the extent of the damage and the body’s ability to heal. If you are facing serious foot or leg complications, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist about surgical and non-surgical options.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes can cause nerve damage, known as neuropathy, and poor circulation, leading to decreased sensation and slower healing in the feet. This makes it easier to develop unnoticed cuts, blisters, or infections, which can worsen without proper care. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, dry or cracked skin, swelling, and slow-healing wounds. Feet may appear discolored, swollen, or have ulcers, which can be painless due to nerve damage, but are at high risk for infection. A podiatrist can diagnose diabetic foot problems with a thorough foot exam, assessing circulation and nerve function. Treatment focuses on preventing complications through regular foot care, wound management, custom orthotics, and education on proper hygiene and footwear.  If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for ongoing care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Randy Garr from Bigfoot Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Provo, UT . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.