Orthopaedic Surgery - Discharge advice following Toe fractures and dislocations

We are sorry to hear you had an injury. This advice is designed to help you get better as quickly as possible. During your recovery we may contact you to improve the service for future patients.

Please contact us if:

• You are worried about anything in this plan or have any questions
• You do NOT wish to be contacted about your injury
• If you are having pain or swelling in a different part of your body
• If you still have significant pain and/or swelling 6 weeks after your injury

Helpline – 0161 206 4892. You can leave a message anytime. We will aim to return your call within 24 hours (except weekends).

Toe fracture and dislocated toe

Even though toes are very small, injuries to the toes can often be quite painful. A fracture of the toe may result from a direct injury, such as dropping a heavy object on your foot, or accidentally kicking something hard. A dislocation is when the toe pops out of its joint and needs putting back.

Important information about smoking

FACT - Broken bones take longer to heal in people who smoke. In extreme cases, it can stop healing altogether.

GOOD NEWS - Stopping now will make the difference and give you the best results.

HELP - Go to: www.smokefree.nhs.uk or https:// www.salford.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-services/quit- smoking/ or have a chat with your GP.

Physiotherapy

If you live in Salford, you can refer yourself online to our physiotherapy department using this website www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/go2physio

If you do not live in Salford or have no internet access, then ask your GP to refer you.

Injury recovery

• It takes up to 6-12 weeks to recover from this injury. It will often be quicker in children
• Pain and swelling are normal. Take simple painkillers e.g. paracetamol for as long as you need to, do not exceed the recommended dose. Pharmacies can further advise
• A splint or strapping can be worn for up to 2 weeks if provided. Not everyone needs this
• You can return to all normal daily activities as soon as you feel comfortable
• Start to wiggle your toes as soon as you can
• It is recommended that you wear supportive and closed footwear for the next 4-6 weeks. Avoid wearing shoes such as sandals, crocs or flip flops
• If walking is painful, then you should put your weight going through your heel
• If you need more advice on exercise or your recovery please refer yourself to physiotherapy

What to do in the first 24-72 hours to reduce pain and swelling

• Ice is very good at reducing swelling and pain. Wrap an icepack (or bag of frozen peas) in a tea towel and put it on your hand. Leave for 5-10 minutes and repeat every 2-3 hours
• Gentle movement of the knee, ankle and toes create blood flow to the injury. This helps it to heal and also reduces swelling. Start your exercises as soon as possible. Doing them after ice often feels better
• You should keep your foot elevated (higher than your hip) as much as possible to reduce swelling

Injury warning!

• Numbness or pins and needles that are not improving
• Your toe appears deformed
• The pain/stiffness has not improved by 6-8 weeks

Osteoporosis

If you’ve fractured a bone AND are over 50 years you may be at risk of having Osteoporosis (weakening of bones). You may be contacted separately by letter from Salford Fracture Liaison Service offering you a telephone risk assessment; if you live outside of Salford please speak to your GP.

What is osteoporosis?

Bone is a living tissue, but as we get older it’s not able to renew itself as well and our bones start to weaken. This happens to everybody to some degree, but when the bones become fragile it’s called osteoporosis.

How can I help myself?

The following will help to reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis:

• Get plenty of calcium and vitamin D as part of a well-balanced diet
• Exercise regularly, especially activities that involve walking or running
• Stop smoking
• Don’t drink too much alcohol

Nutrition tips

• You can help your body to recover by eating the right food
• Drink lots of water
• Protein, calcium and vitamin D work together to help your body to repair
• Foods high in protein: Seafood, meat, dairy, eggs, beans and soya
• Foods high in calcium: Dairy, almonds, seeds, oily fish, beans and lentils
• Dark leafy greens like kale, broccoli and cabbage also help calcium absorption
• Foods high in vitamin D: Oily fish, milk, cheese and eggs
• Eat less sugar and alcohol, as sugar reduces calcium absorption

Driving

It is important that you contact your insurance company to tell them about your injury. You may be able to drive when you feel safe to perform an emergency stop and fully operate your vehicle.

Sports

You should not play any sport until pain-free and have full movement.