Broken Foot or Just Bruised? How to Tell the Difference
Not sure if your foot is broken or just bruised? Here are the signs and symptoms to look for, so you can get the right treatment and start healing.
If you've recently injured your foot, you're likely experiencing some discomfort, swelling, and bruising. However, it can be difficult to tell whether your foot is just bruised or if it's actually broken. It's essential to understand the difference between the two to receive proper treatment and avoid complications down the line. In this post, we'll be discussing the signs and symptoms of a broken foot and a bruised foot, how to tell them apart, and what to do next.
Broken Foot Symptoms
- Immediate pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Swelling that occurs within 24 hours
- Bruising around the area
- A popping sound when the injury occurs
- Difficulty putting weight on the foot or walking without pain
- Toes that appear misshapen or dislocated
- Numbness or tingling in the toes or foot
| Broken Foot vs. Bruised Foot: What's the Difference? | |
|---|---|
| Broken Foot | Bruised Foot |
| A break in the bone | Bruising or swelling of the foot |
| Severe and constant pain | Mild to moderate pain |
| Swelling and tenderness in the affected area | Redness or discoloration on the skin of the foot |
| Difficulty walking or standing | No problem walking or standing |
If you experience any combination of these symptoms, it's best to seek medical attention immediately. A foot fracture requires medical treatment, and delaying treatment can result in complications and prolonged recovery times.
Bruised Foot Symptoms
- Pain that increases with pressure or movement
- Swelling that develops within 2-3 days
- Bruising around the area
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
While a bruised foot can be painful and decrease mobility, it's typically not a severe injury. Many cases can be treated at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). However, if swelling and bruising continue to develop or your pain increases, seek medical attention to rule out any underlying injuries.
How to Tell If Your Foot Is Broken or Bruised
The symptoms of a broken foot and a bruised foot can be similar. What sets them apart is the intensity and duration of pain, swelling, and bruising. If you've recently experienced an injury and you're unsure whether it's a broken or bruised foot, try the "squeeze" test. Squeeze the injured area and assess the pain level. If squeezing doesn't cause immediate pain, you're likely dealing with a bruised foot. If you feel pain or discomfort, it's best to seek medical attention to rule out a broken foot.
Foot Injury Diagnosis and Treatment
If you're experiencing pain, swelling, and bruising after an injury, it's essential to speak with a doctor. An orthopedic doctor can assess your symptoms and perform diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
The treatment for a broken foot depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, a cast or boot and crutches may be required to immobilize the foot and promote healing. Severe fractures may require surgery to realign the bones.
For a bruised foot, treatment typically includes RICE, over-the-counter pain medication, and rest. If there's no improvement, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the foot and alleviate pain.
Orthopedic Doctor Near Me
If you're in pain and in need of medical attention, don't delay. An orthopedic doctor is a specialist who can assess bone, joint, and muscle conditions and develop a treatment plan that suits your needs. With advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options, you can heal quickly and get back on your feet.