If you suspect that you have a broken pinky toe, it is best to see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and a thorough treatment plan. However, for most broken toes, the following self-care measures can be taken at home:

• Rest: Stop doing any physical activity that causes pain, and keep your foot immobile whenever possible.

• Ice: Ice your toe for up to 20 minutes four times per day for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and pain.

• Elevation: Prop your foot up when possible so that your injury is higher than your heart.

• Pain relief: Take over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief, if you have no medical contraindications.

• Buddy taping: Wrap tape around the injured toe and the toe next to it to keep your toe stable. Place a small wad of cotton between your toes to prevent tissues from becoming too moist. Change the cotton daily.

• Footwear: Wear a stiff-bottomed shoe to protect your toe and make room for swelling. Once swelling has gone down, wear a solid, stable shoe to protect your toe.

It is important to note that taping a suspected broken toe can actually prevent healing by pulling apart the bone fragments, so it is best to avoid taping without seeing a doctor first. If your doctor recommends taping, then your provider will show you how to tape a broken toe correctly. In some cases, your podiatrist may need to manipulate the bones within your pinky toe in order to set the toe and allow it to heal properly. Finally, when severe pinky toe breaks arise, surgery may be needed.