How can I tell if my child’s foot is broken?
For children who can’t talk yet, the most obvious sign of a broken foot is a refusal to walk or bear weight on it. You may also see some swelling or bruising, but not usually.
Older children also won’t bear weight on a broken foot. But they’ll complain of pain, and more importantly, will show evidence of a fall or other injury.
Again, swelling, bruises or other wounds may give you a clue. But no matter what your child’s age, an x-ray provides the definitive answer.