Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 2: First aid for a fractured foot
• Method 2 of 2: Aftercare for a foot fracture

The fracture of the foot bone is usually accompanied by very severe pain and a clicking sound. Each foot has 26 bones and each ankle has 3 bones. Since the feet are subject to different impacts every day, fractures are quite common. This article will explain how to provide first aid for a broken foot, and how to treat a fracture after receiving help from a doctor.

Steps

Method 1 of 2: First aid for a fractured foot

1. 1 Recognize a broken bone by the following symptoms.
   • The victim is unable to move the ankle or toes.
   • The foot swells, turns blue, bruises appear.
   • Severe pain occurs when touched.
   • Deformation may be noticeable.
   • Bone may be visible protruding through the skin.
2. 2 Make sure the person with the broken foot is in a safe place.
3. 3 Call an ambulance. While the ambulance is en route, encourage the victim to hang on and wait.
4. 4 Place the person by lifting the affected foot above the level of the heart, for example, using pillows.
5. 5 Remove your shoes and sock carefully.
6. 6 Compare the feet to determine how swollen the affected foot is.
7. 7 Control any bleeding. Use sterile dressings if possible.
8. 8 Apply a splint on the injured foot if it is not possible to call an ambulance. Sensitivity, circulation and mobility must be tested before doing this.
   • Ask the victim which finger you are touching to test sensitivity.
   • Check the victim's circulation by examining both feet to compare temperature and color.
   • Check to see if the victim is able to wiggle their fingers.
   • Secure your foot and ankle. Make a splint out of a stick or cardboard and secure it with a strap or cloth. Wrap a rolled towel or pillow around your foot and secure or tie with a bandage. Tie it tight enough, but not so tight as to restrict blood circulation.
   • Recheck sensitivity, circulation, and mobility after applying the splint.
9. 9 Apply ice to the fracture to reduce swelling. Place a towel or sheet between the skin and the ice. Leave the ice on for 15 minutes and then remove it for 15 minutes.
10. 10 Accompany the victim to the emergency room, if possible.

Method 2 of 2: Aftercare for a foot fracture

1. 1 Follow your doctor's recommendations for subsequent treatment. Often in the hospital, a cast is applied and crutches are provided to relieve stress on the foot. When using crutches, it is important to shift your weight onto your arms and hands. Do not put all your weight on the armpits, as you can damage the nerves that are located in the armpits.
2. 2 Continue to apply ice packs to relieve pain and swelling, and take the medication you are prescribed. Your doctor will advise you to avoid injuring your foot and keep it elevated to prevent swelling.
3. 3 See your podiatrist. If the fracture is severe, surgery may be needed to implant a screw or rod that will hold the foot in position while it heals. Your doctor may need to do a manipulation (known as reduction) if the fracture is displaced.
4. 4 Get physical therapy after removing the cast, as recommended by your doctor. You can find out what exercises to do to improve the strength and flexibility of your sore foot.