Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care if a toe or foot suddenly becomes cold, very pale, blue or black, especially with severe pain or sudden numbness.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice for a blister, crack or open sore, particularly if you have diabetes, poor circulation or reduced feeling.
Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage or fever may indicate infection and should not wait for routine follow-up.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if:
Toe pain keeps returning or limits walking
The toe is becoming stiffer or more bent
Corns or calluses repeatedly become painful
You cannot find footwear that avoids rubbing
Several toes begin clawing without a clear reason
You develop numbness, weakness or altered balance
These changes can indicate a serious loss of blood flow rather than a routine feature of a bent toe.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hammer, claw and mallet toes. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.