Summarize:

treatment protocol. The most effective treatment protocol for minor musculoskeletal injuries (including stress fractures) is abbreviated R.I.C.E. and stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. The first step is rest temporarily stop all activity that involves your injured foot in order to address your injury. Next, cold therapy (ice wrapped in a thin towel or frozen gel packs) should be applied to the broken toe as soon as possible in order to stop any internal bleeding and reduce inflammation, preferably while your leg is elevated on a chair or stack of pillows (which also combats inflammation). Ice should be applied for 10-15 minutes every hour, then reduce the frequency as the pain and swelling subside over the course of a few days. Compressing the ice against your foot with a compression bandage or elastic support will also help control the inflammation. Don't tie the compression bandage too tight or leave it on for more than 15 minutes at a time because complete restriction of blood flow could cause more damage to your foot. Most uncomplicated broken toes heal well, usually within four to six weeks, at which time you can slowly resume athletic activities. Your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin, or regular analgesics (painkillers) such as acetaminophen to help combat the inflammation and pain associated with your toe injury. These medications tend to be hard on your stomach, liver and kidneys, so they shouldn't be taken for more than two weeks at a time. Tape your broken toe to an adjacent uninjured toe (called buddy taping) for support and to assist realigning it if it's somewhat crooked (speak with your doctor first if your toe appears crooked). Thoroughly clean your toes and feet with alcohol wipes and then use strong medical-grade tape that's preferably waterproof so it can withstand showering. Change the tape every few days over the course of a few weeks. Consider putting some gauze or felt in between your toes before taping them together in order to prevent skin irritation. To make a simple, homemade splint for additional support, place trimmed Popsicle sticks on both sides of your toes before taping them together. If you're unable to tape your own toes, then ask your family doctor, specialist, chiropractor, podiatrist or physical therapist for assistance. Immediately after your toe injury, switch to comfortable-fitting shoes that have plenty of room in the toe cap in order to accommodate the swelling and the taping. Choose hard-soled, supportive and sturdy shoes over more trendy types and avoid wearing high heels for at least a few months, because they push your weight forward and severely crowd the toes. Supportive open-toed sandals may be used if the inflammation is excessive, but remember that they don't offer any toe protection.
Utilize the R.I.C.E. Take over-the-counter medications. Tape your toes for support. Wear comfortable shoes for four to six weeks.