Toe, Foot, And Ankle Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

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When to See a Doctor

Are you unable to move your toe, foot, or ankle normally?

See significance of inability to move normally if you need information to help you answer the questions below.

Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.

Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Are you unable to move your injured toe, foot, or ankle?

Yes

Are you having limited foot or ankle movement with severe pain?

Yes

After having a brace, cast, or splint applied, are you unable to move your toes or foot normally (not because the splint is in the way)? Note: See first aid for a cast or splint that may be too tight.

Yes

Is a young child unable or unwilling to walk or stand, limping, or protecting an injured foot or ankle?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Are you unable to move your foot or ankle normally or you have decreased strength after 24 hours of home treatment?

If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.

Last updated:	October 27, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer