How do I know if my child foot is broken?

What are the signs and symptoms of a foot fracture?

Pain and swelling in the injured foot.
Decreased ability to move the foot or walk.
Bruising or open breaks in the skin of the injured foot.
A different shape to your child’s foot.

Can a child walk on a fractured foot?

Your child should not walk or put weight on the injured foot until the doctor says it’s OK. Your child should never put weight on a splint—it may break. Give your child pain medicines as directed by the healthcare provider.

Can you have a broken foot and still be able to walk?

Broken bones in the foot cause pain and swelling. Usually (but not always) the pain is so bad, that you are not able to walk. Broken bones in the toes cause less pain, and you may be able to walk with a broken toe. Bruising of the foot with a broken bone is also common.

When should I take my child to the doctor for a foot injury?

Knowing When to See Your Doctor

If the child has severe pain.
If symptoms do not go away after rest and home treatment.
If the injured area looks crooked or has lumps and bumps.
If the child has numbness in any part of the injured area.
If there is a lot of swelling or redness near the injury.

How do I know if my foot is broken or just bruised?

In general, a broken foot tends to be more painful than a sprained foot, and the pain lasts longer. Bruising, swelling, and tenderness are also more severe if your foot is broken. Another way to tell the difference between a broken foot and sprained foot is the sound the body makes when the injury occurs.

How long does a broken foot take to heal in children?

Whatever your child’s treatment, you can ease symptoms and help the foot heal with care at home. Your child may need 6 to 8 weeks or more to fully heal. Healthy habits can help your child heal. Give your child a variety of healthy foods.

How do you treat a minor foot injury?

Symptom Relief

Rest. Stop any physical activity that causes pain, and keep your foot still when possible.
Ice your foot for 20 minutes 2 to 3 times a day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin.
Keep your foot raised to help keep swelling down.
Take pain medicine if you need it.