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Since we cannot see your x-rays or examine your toe, we can only give you general answers to your questions. Here are some thoughts, though.
- Fractures (fracture means the same as broken bone) usually heal in about 4-6 weeks if the fractured area is not subjected to lots of pulling and pressure that might undo the healing process. This is the reason doctors often use casts and splints to treat fractures. But if your doctor felt that the chipped area in your big toe was stable in just a shoe, then it should heal fine.
- With any fracture there is injury to the surrounding tendons and muscles and those structures will often continue to hurt, particularly with motion, even after the bone itself has healed.
- And sometimes, fractures just don’t heal well and continue to hurt.
Areas that continue to hurt usually need additional attention. Depending on how long the pain in your toe has been there, you might want to check back with your doctor. She or he may want to order follow-up x-rays or scans to see how the area is healing or may want to try a different treatment. Only the doctor who has examined you and seen the films can actually give you specific advice about your toe.
Posted 1-5-03
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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