How do i know i broke my toe. Broken Toe vs Stubbed Toe: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Time
How can you tell if your toe is broken or just stubbed. What are the key symptoms of a broken toe. How long does it take for a broken toe to heal. What is the proper treatment for a broken toe. When should you see a doctor for a toe injury. How can you prevent toe injuries at home.
Understanding Toe Injuries: Broken vs. Stubbed
Toe injuries are common household accidents that can range from minor inconveniences to more serious issues requiring medical attention. Understanding the difference between a broken toe and a stubbed toe is crucial for proper treatment and recovery.
What is a stubbed toe?
A stubbed toe occurs when you accidentally hit your toe against a hard surface, causing immediate pain and discomfort. While painful, stubbed toes are generally minor injuries that heal on their own within a few days.
What is a broken toe?
A broken toe, also known as a toe fracture, is a more severe injury involving a crack or break in one of the toe bones. This type of injury often requires medical attention and a longer recovery period.
Symptoms of a Broken Toe vs. Stubbed Toe
Distinguishing between a broken toe and a stubbed toe can be challenging, as both injuries cause pain and discomfort. However, there are several key symptoms that can help you identify a potential fracture:
- Persistent pain lasting more than a few days
- Severe swelling and bruising
- Difficulty moving the toe
- Visible deformity or misalignment
- Bleeding under the toenail
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing a Broken Toe
When you visit a doctor for a suspected broken toe, they will likely perform the following diagnostic procedures:
- Physical examination of the affected toe
- Comparison with the uninjured toe on the opposite foot
- X-ray imaging to confirm the presence and extent of a fracture
In some cases, additional imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans may be necessary to assess soft tissue damage or complex fractures.
Treatment Options for Broken Toes
The treatment for a broken toe depends on the severity and location of the fracture. Common treatment options include:
1. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
This conservative approach is often the first line of treatment for minor toe fractures:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured toe
- Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain
- Compression: Use a bandage to support the toe
- Elevation: Keep the foot elevated to minimize swelling
2. Buddy Taping
Buddy taping involves taping the injured toe to an adjacent healthy toe for support and stability. This method is often used for minor fractures of the smaller toes.
3. Protective Footwear
Your doctor may recommend wearing a special shoe or boot to protect the injured toe and promote healing.
4. Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
5. Surgery
In severe cases, such as compound fractures or misaligned bones, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe and ensure proper healing.
Recovery Time for Broken Toes
The recovery time for a broken toe varies depending on the severity of the fracture and the treatment method. Generally, broken toes take about 4-6 weeks to heal fully. However, some factors can affect the healing process:
- Age and overall health
- Severity of the fracture
- Compliance with treatment recommendations
- Presence of underlying health conditions
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Potential Complications of Untreated Broken Toes
Failing to treat a broken toe properly can lead to several complications, including:
- Chronic pain and stiffness
- Deformity of the toe
- Arthritis in the affected joint
- Difficulty wearing shoes comfortably
- Increased risk of future injuries
To avoid these complications, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect a broken toe.
Preventing Toe Injuries at Home
While accidents can happen, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of toe injuries in your home:
- Keep walkways clear of clutter and obstacles
- Use adequate lighting in all areas of your home
- Wear protective footwear when moving heavy objects
- Be mindful of furniture placement to avoid accidental collisions
- Use caution when walking on uneven surfaces or stairs
By implementing these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of toe injuries in your daily life.
When to Seek Medical Attention for a Toe Injury
While minor toe injuries can often be treated at home, there are situations where medical attention is necessary. You should consult a healthcare professional if:
- Pain persists or worsens after a few days
- You notice significant swelling, bruising, or discoloration
- There’s visible deformity or misalignment of the toe
- You have difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot
- You experience numbness or tingling in the injured toe
- There are signs of infection, such as fever or increased redness
Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper healing of your toe injury.
Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation for Broken Toes
After the initial healing period, your healthcare provider may recommend additional steps to ensure full recovery and prevent future issues:
1. Physical Therapy
Exercises and stretches can help restore flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the affected toe and foot.
2. Gradual Return to Activities
Your doctor will provide guidance on when and how to safely resume normal activities and exercise routines.
3. Footwear Modifications
You may need to wear special shoes or use orthotics to support your foot during the recovery process.
4. Follow-up Appointments
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider will ensure that your toe is healing properly and address any ongoing concerns.
By following these long-term care strategies, you can maximize your recovery and minimize the risk of future toe problems.
Impact of Toe Injuries on Daily Life and Activities
A broken or severely stubbed toe can have a significant impact on your daily routine and activities. Some common challenges you may face include:
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
- Limitations in participating in sports or exercise
- Challenges with wearing certain types of shoes
- Discomfort during sleep or rest
- Temporary inability to drive (if the injury affects your right foot)
It’s important to be patient during the recovery process and make necessary adjustments to your lifestyle to accommodate your healing toe.
Myths and Misconceptions About Toe Injuries
There are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding toe injuries that can lead to improper treatment or delayed recovery:
Myth 1: If you can walk on it, it’s not broken
Reality: It’s possible to walk on a broken toe, especially if it’s a minor fracture. The ability to bear weight doesn’t rule out a fracture.
Myth 2: There’s nothing you can do for a broken toe
Reality: While treatment options may be limited compared to other bone fractures, proper care is essential for optimal healing and prevention of complications.
Myth 3: You should immediately pop a bruised toenail
Reality: Draining a bruised toenail should only be done by a medical professional to avoid infection and further injury.
Myth 4: Toe injuries always heal on their own
Reality: While minor injuries may heal naturally, more severe fractures require proper medical attention and treatment.
Understanding these myths can help you make informed decisions about your toe injury and seek appropriate care when necessary.
Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Toe Injuries
In addition to conventional medical treatments, some people find relief from toe injuries through alternative and complementary therapies. While these methods should not replace professional medical advice, they may be used in conjunction with traditional treatments:
1. Acupuncture
This traditional Chinese medicine technique may help reduce pain and promote healing in some individuals.
2. Herbal Remedies
Certain herbs and supplements, such as arnica or turmeric, are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in recovery.
3. Massage Therapy
Gentle massage of the surrounding foot area may help improve circulation and reduce tension, potentially supporting the healing process.
4. Hydrotherapy
Alternating hot and cold water treatments may help reduce swelling and promote blood flow to the injured area.
It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any alternative therapies to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your specific injury.
Toe Injuries in Athletes and Active Individuals
Athletes and physically active individuals may be at higher risk for toe injuries due to the demands placed on their feet. Some considerations for this group include:
Increased Risk Factors
- High-impact sports (e.g., running, basketball)
- Improper footwear or training techniques
- Repetitive stress on the toes
- Sudden changes in direction or stopping
Special Considerations for Recovery
Athletes may require a more comprehensive rehabilitation plan to ensure a safe return to their sport. This may include:
- Sport-specific exercises to regain strength and flexibility
- Gradual return-to-play protocols
- Modifications to training routines or equipment
- Ongoing monitoring to prevent re-injury
Working closely with sports medicine specialists and athletic trainers can help ensure a safe and effective recovery for athletes with toe injuries.
Emotional and Psychological Impact of Toe Injuries
While toe injuries may seem minor compared to other health issues, they can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on individuals, especially those who rely on physical activity for their well-being or livelihood. Some common emotional responses to toe injuries include:
- Frustration with limited mobility
- Anxiety about the recovery process
- Depression due to inability to participate in regular activities
- Stress related to missed work or financial concerns
- Fear of re-injury or long-term consequences
It’s important to address these emotional aspects of recovery alongside the physical healing process. Strategies to cope with the psychological impact of a toe injury may include:
- Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups
- Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
- Engaging in alternative activities that don’t stress the injured toe
- Setting realistic recovery goals and celebrating small milestones
- Consulting with a mental health professional if emotional distress persists
By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of toe injuries, individuals can achieve a more holistic and satisfying recovery experience.
Future Developments in Toe Injury Treatment
As medical science advances, new treatments and technologies are being developed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of toe injuries. Some promising areas of research include:
1. Advanced Imaging Techniques
Improved imaging technologies may allow for more accurate and detailed diagnosis of toe injuries, potentially leading to more targeted treatments.
2. Regenerative Medicine
Stem cell therapies and other regenerative techniques may help accelerate healing and improve outcomes for toe injuries in the future.
3. 3D-Printed Orthotics and Prosthetics
Customized, 3D-printed devices may provide better support and comfort for individuals recovering from toe injuries.
4. Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Advancements in surgical procedures may lead to less invasive options for treating complex toe fractures, potentially reducing recovery times and improving outcomes.
While these developments are still in various stages of research and implementation, they offer hope for improved treatment options for toe injuries in the coming years.
Conclusion: Taking Care of Your Toes
Understanding the difference between a stubbed toe and a broken toe is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. By recognizing the symptoms of a broken toe and seeking timely medical attention, you can prevent complications and ensure optimal healing. Remember to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of toe injuries in your daily life, and don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent pain or other concerning symptoms.
Toe health is an important aspect of overall foot care and can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. By staying informed about toe injuries, their treatments, and prevention strategies, you can take proactive steps to maintain healthy and pain-free toes. Whether you’re an athlete, an active individual, or someone who simply wants to avoid the inconvenience of toe injuries, proper care and attention to your toes will serve you well in the long run.
Is My Toe Stubbed or Broken?
Even though the furniture in your house hasn’t moved, and you most definitely know where it is, sometimes you end up running into it. Whether you trip over the umbrella stand, bump your hip on the dining table, or accidentally kick the coffee table, we’ve all been there. Hitting your toe is never fun, but sometimes, there’s real damage. How do you know it it’s simply been stubbed or if it’s actually broken?
What Should You Do?
It happened. You stubbed your toe. The familiar pain seems to shoot through every part of your foot, being at its worst in your poor throbbing toe. It’s so painful that you start envisioning the cast, x-rays, and various other treatments you’ll need to repair the injury. However, it’s important to know how to accurately assess the pain so you know whether you need medical assistance.
How to Tell the Difference
Stubbing your toe can be so painful that you might believe that it’s broken when it’s not. A stubbed toe might show signs of swelling or bruising, but there’s no further injury under the surface. A broken toe is much more severe, and often presents itself with more obvious and harsher symptoms. The consequences of a broken toe, especially when untreated, include prolonged pain or stiffness, infection, and/or deformity. Here are a few things to do when worse comes to worst.
Give it some time
When it happens, and for some time after, your toe will hurt no matter whether it’s stubbed or broken. However, while the pain from a stubbed toe will subside, a broken toe will continue to hurt for the rest of the day and even longer.
Take Note of Discoloration
A stubbed toe may result in some bruising or bleeding. If the discoloration looks unusually dark, if it lasts longer than a few days, or if there’s an excess of blood under the nail, your toe may be broken. If it looks abnormal, there may be something wrong.
Compare it to Your Other Toe
If it looks bigger, is a different shape, or a different color from your “normal” toe, then the issue likely goes beyond the surface level. Using your unharmed toe as a baseline will allow you to assess the severity of the change. If it’s crooked or stuck in a bent position (upwards, downwards, or side-to-side), it’s important to get an x-ray.
If You Think it’s Broken
It’s always better to be safe than sorry! If you have any of the above issues or suspect that there’s something wrong, schedule an appointment with us. In the meantime, it’s important to get off your toe and get some rest. Elevate your foot on a pillow and apply ice. It may require toe splinting, protective footwear, or surgery. A broken toe generally takes around 4-6 weeks to heal, depending on the severity and method of treatment which is required. Getting treatment before it gets worse is imperative, so don’t hesitate to call us!
If you believe that you might have broken your toe, or if you have any other podiatry-related needs, give us a call at (281) 469-2676 today! We here at Dr. Ken Dennis are happy to help ensure that you’re taking the steps to achieve healthy feet!
Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC: Podiatry
A STUBBED TOE COULD BE FRACTURED: Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC: Podiatry
Stubbing your toe happens suddenly and unexpectedly, causing a painful experience even if the actual injury is relatively minor. Because your toes have only a small amount of fatty tissue to insulate them from any shock, a stubbed toe injury can often be very painful without being very severe. This is not always the case, however, and since there is the possibility that you may have a more serious injury like a fracture, it is important to have your toe evaluated by your foot care professional so you don’t accidentally make things worse.
How can I tell if my toe may be broken?
The symptoms of a toe fracture are severe pain in your toe, especially when you try to walk; bleeding under the toenail; swelling and bruising that lasts for more than two or three days.
Stubbing your toe can also create enough stress to cause a tendon or ligament injury, and the possible dislocation of one or more joints. There is also the possibility of infection taking hold. It has also been shown in studies that a stubbed toe is more susceptible to developing arthritis as you get older.
Stubbed and broken toe treatments
If your stubbed toe is not too severe, the pain and swelling will usually subside within a day or two. If it goes beyond that, you may have a more serious problem requiring the services of a podiatrist.
An x-ray will be taken to rule out any broken bones. A broken toe can often be successfully treated by buddy taping it to the toe next to it. Wearing a special cast boot or shoe will immobilize the area while healing occurs
In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the toe and to remove any bone fragments that may have gotten into the joint.
If you suspect that your stubbed toe may be broken, consult with our board-certified podiatrists at Foot and Ankle Center of Fort Lee, LLC. The center offers convenient locations in Fort Lee NJ, Ringwood NJ, Flushing Queens NY, Woodhaven NY, Brooklyn NY, and Forest Hills NY. Contact us at (201) 363-9844and schedule an appointment today!
PROPER TREATMENT OF ANKLE SPRAINS IS ESSENTIAL
Twisting and spraining your ankle is a very common injury. Even a minor sprain can cause swelling and may be very painful due to all the nerves and other sensitive components that make up the feet and ankles.
HOW ORTHOTIC INSERTS HELP YOUR FEET, ANKLES, KNEES, AND BACK
The use of custom orthotic shoe inserts and devices can provide more support and treat abnormalities in foot structure that cause many foot and ankle problems. The improved spinal alignment also helps treat knee, back and hip issues.
4 TREATMENTS FOR INGROWN TOENAILS
Ingrown toenails are a common and painful condition that often affects the big toe, but any of your toes can be affected.
WHY ARE MY HEELS CRACKING?
Having calluses and cracked heels is a common foot problem that is usually just a minor annoyance for the majority of people and some thick skin is essential and beneficial to the proper cushioning and protection of your feet.
Worked as a security guard, impressed Emelianenko and broke his opponent’s leg. Magomed Ankalaev will fight for the belt UFC
Ankalaev won nine fights in a row – this is a record for the light heavyweight division UFC / Zuma / TASS
On the night of December 11, the UFC 282 tournament will be held in Las Vegas. 39-year-old Pole Jan Blachowicz. The winner of this fight will receive the light heavyweight championship belt (up to 93 kg). If successful, Ankalaev will become only the fourth UFC champion from Russia – Khabib Nurmagomedov, Petr Yan and Islam Makhachev won titles before him. “Vedomosti. Sport” gives the main facts from the biography of Magomed Ankalaev.
3313 people live, according to official figures, in Teletli, a small village in the Shamil district of Dagestan, where Ankalaev is from. As a child, sport was one of the main hobbies of the future UFC fighter – after school, he went in for freestyle wrestling and volleyball, and also helped his mother with the housework. A special responsibility fell on Magomed – he is the eldest child in the family, he has a brother and three sisters, so there was almost no free time.
At the age of 16, Ankalaev’s father died, and then the workload increased. “These are good years, but now it’s hard to remember,” Magomed said in an interview with the UFC Russia YouTube channel. – Hard childhood? When I wasn’t hungry, when I had something to wear, I can’t say it was heavy. But it’s not easy for everyone who lives in the mountains, I know. Did it help to harden? I think yes”.
18 Magomed was when he decided to move to Makhachkala. Initially, he went to enter the local pedagogical institute, but did not have time to pass one of the exams. Then Ankalaev decided to wait a year and apply again to the educational institution (looking ahead, let’s say that the second attempt was successful), but for now pay attention to sports. Magomed began to engage in Greco-Roman wrestling, to study mixed martial arts and at the age of 19 he became a fighter of the Dagestan club “Highlander”. At the same time, Ankalaev worked as a security guard in a military department.
“During my studies, I can say that I found myself in martial arts. I started to work hard, started performing in various amateur MMAs, and I began to succeed,” Magomed recalled. – I have never lost by beating – I lost either by pain, or in combat sambo. And there often everything is decided by one throw.
Magomed was not destined to become a teacher, but everything was ready for his debut in professional MMA promotions. And soon this debut happened.
B 2014 Ankalaev was invited to the Kharkiv Oplot Challenge league, Magomed agreed and defeated the Ukrainian Vasily Babich in the first fight by a split decision of the judges. Soon Ankalaev began to compete in the major Chechen organization World Fighting Championship Akhmat (now Absolute Championship Akhmat or ACA), where he won five fights in a year and won the light heavyweight title.
Ankalaev’s achievements were noted in the MMA Union of Russia, recognizing him as the best athlete of 2015. The head of the organization Fedor Emelianenko personally spoke about Magomed, calling Ankalaev one of the most promising MMA fighters. Later, the athlete recalled that he talked with Emelianenko and could even be in his Fedor Team, but negotiations about this did not go far.
Magomed Ankalaev is ranked fourth in the UFC / Zuma / TASS light heavyweight division rankings
10:0 – this was Ankalaev’s personal account of fights by October 2017, when attention was paid to him in the UFC. By this time, Magomed was no longer considered just a promising athlete, but a real star of Russian mixed martial arts. After another successful fight in the Akhmat league, a long-term contract with the main promotion of the world fell on the table for Magomed.
Ankalaev was given half a year to prepare for the first fight in the UFC, and in March 2018 he entered the octagon against the Scot Paul Craig, who also had 10 wins in his asset. In the third round, a second before the end of the fight, the Russian could not stand the chokehold and gave up – this is how he lost for the first time in his career. In all interviews, Magomed is as animated as possible when it comes to this fight – according to the athlete, he divided his life into before and after.
“At first it was very difficult for me. After the battle, I didn’t go out for a month where there are people,” Ankalaev noted. – I left for Khasavyurt, where my mother lives, and stayed there. I thought that was all – I would not return, I would not fight. But within a month, I began to realize that not everything depends on me – I did everything I could, but it was the will of the Almighty. And it let me go. I decided to return, came to the hall and began to plow, sparing no effort and myself. When you have zero defeats, you always worry about this zero, you hold on to it. I have now passed it – I know what a loss is, I know what a victory is.
$50,000 Ankalaev received $50,000 at the end of his second fight in the UFC – this is the amount in addition to the agreed fee that is paid for the best performance of the evening. At the UFC Fight Night 136 tournament in Moscow, the Russian effectively knocked out the Pole Marcin Prachne in the first round and returned to the winning path. Further, Magomed dealt with the Brazilian Klidson Abreu without any problems (by the decision of the judges) and the South African Dalchu Lungiambula (knockout in 29 seconds).
His confrontation with Moldavian Ion Cutelaba turned out to be loud. After a series of kicks to the head at the beginning of the first round, the referee decided to stop the fight and award Ankalaev the victory by technical knockout. This option did not suit the assembled audience – she began to boo the Russian, he could not restrain himself and showed the stands the middle finger. The UFC admitted that the judge was wrong, and organized a rematch. Ankalaev was flawless in it, knocking out his opponent already in the fourth minute of the first round. “I think that Ankalaev will soon become a champion. I give it 93% out of 100. A literate person, so I think he will succeed. I will be happy for him, because he works hard, ”Kutselaba admired his opponent after the defeat.
9 consecutive wins by Ankalaev after that loss to Craig. This is the longest streak among active UFC light heavyweight fighters and the second longest in the history of the promotion (Jon Jones leads with 13 consecutive victories).
After a crushing success in a fight with Anthony Smith in July 2022 (breaking his opponent’s leg with a low kick in the first round), Ankalaev publicly stated: “How many more times do I have to win to fight for the belt?” The UFC leadership heard Magomed and in October introduced him as a participant in a candidate fight with promotion veteran Jan Blachowicz. However, a month later, to the surprise of many, the fight turned into a title fight. The reason was a severe shoulder injury to Czech Jiri Prochazka, after which he abandoned his belt, which he was supposed to defend in a duel with Brazilian Glover Teixeira at UFC 282.0003
Ankalaev said that he himself was surprised when he was offered to fight for the title just a few weeks before the fight, but in the end he took it for granted: “After the evening training, we ate, went home . .. I was going to sleep, my manager Ali Abdel called me -Aziz and offered a five-round fight with Teixeira. I agreed. Time passed, they called back, they said that Teixeira would not fight, Jan Blachowicz would. This fight will be a five-round championship fight. I was very happy and we agreed.”
Jan Blachowicz has been in the UFC since 2014. He has had 17 fights in the prestigious promotion: 11 wins and six losses / Zuma / TASS
At $900,000 , the First Sportz portal estimates the fortune of Magomed Ankalaev. According to Insidesport, in case of victory in the title fight, the Russian will receive a fee of $200,000. Blachowicz’s earnings in the best hands for him will be a little more – $220,000, although the Pole is much more experienced and more famous than his opponent – he has 29wins in 38 MMA fights. But here several factors come into play. First, Blachowicz’s age is one of the final fights in the UFC. Secondly, the statistics of meetings of the Pole. Blachowicz won his last fight in the promotion due to an injury to his opponent, and before that he lost the light heavyweight belt to Teixeira. Most likely, in the event of a defeat from Ankalaev, Blachowicz’s career will be de facto over. This is also understood by bookmakers, who give quotes for the victory of a Russian about two times better than for the success of a Pole.
However, Magomed does not delude himself ahead of time and is preparing for a serious rivalry: “I had many rivals, I fought with the tops, and I feel that my time has come. Soon you will see who is stronger among us and who will take this belt home. The UFC title is my dream, I went to this for a long time.
6:00 Moscow time – the start time of the main card fights at UFC 282. Ankalaev and Blachowicz should appear in the octagon no earlier than 8:00. Their fight can be seen on the Match TV channel.
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Kim Bok-joo reflects. Why did I take up sports? When I was ten, my dad took me to the gym. I saw shiny barbells and dumbbells there, I just fell in love with them, and began to do weightlifting.
Announcer announces: third attempt, weight 110 kilograms.
I lifted the bar a thousand times, rubbed my hands on the bar a million times, shed liters of sweat and tears. And here is my chance.
TV in the bar, broadcasting weightlifting competitions. Visitors offer to switch the program.
Bok-ju pushes the bar, fixes the weight. She wins gold! The waiter in the bar shouts: this is my niece! The owner of the bar shouts: this is my daughter!
Bok-ju on the podium, she is awarded a gold medal.
Swimming pool. A swim is announced for a distance of 200 meters for men. Start. Jung Jun hyung rushes forward. This is a rising star of the sports university, he takes first place in the qualifying group B, ahead of even the Korean record holder.
After a run at the stadium, weightlifters work with the barbell. The coach tells Bok-ju to pay attention to his legs. After training, the girls talk about what they have for lunch today. Pork? Very good!
An event is about to take place in the gym, so the girls from the weightlifting club are dragging chairs into the gym.
Jun-hyung starts on road 4. He is visibly agitated, holding his head, prematurely jumping off the pedestal. Is it a false start again? He has already been disqualified because of this!
Weightlifters bring chairs to the gym. A team from the rhythmic gymnastics club is engaged there. Make way, let’s arrange the chairs! Gymnast coach chases weightlifters. Gymnasts laugh at “fat women”. They throw balls at them. One hits Bok-ju’s head, who responds by throwing the ball back, frightening the gymnasts with the force of her throw. Sorry, didn’t count. One of the gymnasts trips Bok-ju, she drops the chairs, the chairs already placed by her friends fall down according to the domino principle.
Jun-hyung is riding a bike. Bok-ju and her friends Nan-hee and Sung-ok go towards him. Girls discuss impudent behavior of gymnasts: why do they behave like this? Bok-joo says maybe I should drown myself in the school pool already? Eat a sausage, maybe you’ll feel better! Bok-ju accepts a friend’s proposal. Joon-hyung’s bike hits her, the girl falls, the sausage flies to the ground. Jun-hyung looks at the sausage in horror: for a moment he thought it was someone’s finger. You killed my sausage! Do you mourn her death? Somewhere I saw you. You saw her on TV, she was interviewed. And the whole school is hung with her photographs. She is a weightlifting fairy. Nan-hee asks Jun-hyung: Do you love Messi? Whom? Bye! Junhyun is leaving. Why did you ask him about Messi? This is the best way to meet a guy. Football is their favorite sport. Bok-ju discovers a used lace handkerchief on the grass. Wrinkling her nose, she picks up the handkerchief.
Gymnasts washing clothes in the automatic laundry in a student dormitory. Where did my swimsuit go? These are weightlifters! They clean up here too. Gymnasts see two novice weightlifters. They stop the plump girls and start interrogating them about the missing swimsuit. Bok-ju appears. She defends her girls, demands proof of their swimsuit theft. There is no evidence, there are only suspicions. So stay away from them!
Bok-ju and her girlfriends go to their father’s cafe. They eat chicken. Uncle Bok-ju says to them: you have already eaten four servings, gluttons! No, only three! The girls continue to discuss the conflict situation with the gymnasts: they even gave them our gym, and we were moved to the backyards. It all started after their team won the Asian championship gold. Do you remember what happened to Ko-su?
Flashback. A fat girl screams under the windows of the dorm room in which her boyfriend lives: I will make up every day! Why do not you like me? Slender gymnasts come out of the hostel. A fight breaks out: you seduced my boyfriend! She couldn’t practice and was kicked out of the team!
Gymnasts putting laundry into the washing machine. Who is it there? No, it seemed. The girls leave the laundry room. Someone sneaks to the washing machine.
Jun-hyung can’t find his handkerchief. The duty officer comes into the room, reproaches Jun-hyung for not being tidy here. I feel bad after the competition! Disqualification is not a disease. You are an egoist. The attendant leaves. Jun-hyung complains to his roommate that he picks on me all the time. Probably jealous.
Jun-hyung comes to a nightclub. A gymnast comes up to him: will you give me your phone number? My mom took it from me. I did badly. Jun-hyung leaves the club, comes to his mother, continues to look for the lost handkerchief.
Weighing before training. Son-ok has two extra pounds since the last weigh-in. I just ate a big meal yesterday. The coach tells the athletes how hard it is to lose weight. Watch your nutrition. Father Bok-ju enters the hall. Someone ordered chicken yesterday, but didn’t show up for the order. Help yourself. And you, coach, I am very grateful to you for everything you have done for your daughter. Why did you come here? Bok-ju asks his father. Now you will know. In gratitude for the chicken, the coach releases Bok-joo from training, they go to the hospital with their father to visit their sick mother.
Bok-joo returns to the dorm. She finds her friends in her room. One deals with calluses from the barbell on her hands, the other does a manicure. Why do you need a manicure? You’ll still break your nails on the barbell. Bok-ju is looking for his T-shirt, can’t find it. This is my favorite! I won gold in it! Now I can’t do anything anymore. It’s the gymnasts who are taking revenge on us, because they believe that it’s us stealing their leotards.
Bok-ju sorts things out with the gymnasts: you are taking revenge on us like that! Why do we need your T-shirt? It will still be great for us. Prove that we stole it. And I’ll prove it. How? I’ll arrange a search. Just try. A fight begins, one of the gymnasts falls and injures her hand.
Coaches say Bok-ju: You’re nothing but trouble. Our entire club is suffering. You hurt her arm, she won’t be able to train for two weeks. But I only pushed her a little! You will have to apologize to her. The head coach has already apologized to their entire club.
Bok-joo apologizes to the gymnast. Are you satisfied now? I don’t know, maybe I’ll forgive you.
Bok-ju thinks he needs to unwind. She and her friends go up to the roof of the dorm, where they retrieve cans of beer from a hiding place. Drinking, screaming. Too bad there’s nothing to eat!
A roommate suggests that Jun-hyung have some fun: the teachers have already gone home, the duty officer is also not there. The guys get up and leave the room.
The girls slink down the stairs after the gatherings on the roof. They see the attendants, hide from them in the laundry, notice a man there. He has a hood on his head, the edges of his red shorts come out of his pants. The girls raise a screech: maniac! The man runs away, he is pursued by weightlifters. The maniac hides, but Bok-joo catches Jun-hyung, who was descending from the balcony with a fire hose. His neighbor manages to escape.
Jun-hyung is brought to the trainers. No, he doesn’t look like a maniac. Bok-ju declares: he is strange, he wears a lace scarf! Jun-hyung is released. He meets Bok-ju in the corridor: give me back the handkerchief. And you first return my t-shirt! I didn’t take it. Then you won’t get a handkerchief. Jun-hyung is watching Bok-joo everywhere and demands to return the handkerchief to him. She starts talking about her favorite T-shirt.
Before the rhythmic gymnastics performance, Song Shi-ho looks at a photo on his phone where she was taken with Joon-hyun. Announce her exit: the first stage of qualifying competitions, exercises with a ribbon. During the performance, Shi-ho drops the tape. She gets her grades down.
The girls are forced to move chairs again. A man from the administration helps them in the hall. When he leans over, red underpants are visible. Pervert! Have you seen? The maniac is taken away by the police, the gymnasts get their leotards back, Bok-joo gets his favorite T-shirt back.
Bok-ju returns to the dormitory and finds out that the gymnast Shi-ho, who did not pass the qualifying competitions for the national team, was put in her room and returned to the institute.
Bok-ju is washing and ironing the handkerchief she found. She goes to the pool, looks for Jun-hyung there: you don’t know the guy here, he’s tall, he has a sharp chin, he rides a bike. He is considered handsome. It’s about me? Here is your scarf. I washed and ironed it. Jun-hyung sniffs the handkerchief, yells at Bok-ju: why did you wash it! Give it back to me, I’ll get it dirty again. Bok-ju and Jun-hyung pull the handkerchief towards them, the girl loses her balance and falls into the pool. She begins to sink, Jun-hyung jumps into the pool, lifts the girl to the surface. He holds her in his arms. They get to know each other.
Flashback. The little boy falls out of the window. A plump girl catches him. Children look at each other and laugh.
Little Jun-hyung, a puny thin boy, is about to take over the baton at the school competition. Members of his team threaten: look, don’t let us down. Jun-hyung runs the wrong way, his team loses. Jun-hyung is involved in cleaning the class. He is sitting on the window, which is going to be washed. Members of his team come up to him, push him. The boy flies out of the window. From below comes plump Bok-ju. She puts a whole donut in her mouth to argue with her friend. At that moment, Jun-hyung falls on her. Bok-ju picks him up. The impact sends the donut crumbs out of her mouth and into Jun-hyung’s face. Children laugh. Jun-hyung yells: donut!
Jun-hyung lets go of Bok-joo, who is floundering in the pool. Yes, it’s not deep! Jun-hyung helps the girl out of the pool, gives her a towel. She says: do not be angry, I did not know that the scarf could not be washed. So it’s you, Donut! How have you changed! You, too, were so small. And now what a waved. I’m glad to see you! I accept apologies. Now we’re even.
Bok-ju tells her friends about the incident. He was so skinny! Make friends with him for me,” Nan-hee asks her friend. He is the most handsome boy in school!
Joon-hyung runs past: hey donut! Now, I told you, I have a bad feeling. So your name was Donut?
In the dining room, Jun-hyung comes up to the table at which Bok-joo sits with her friends: eat more, Donut! Wow, what shoulders! I put in a little. Probably the second batch.
Jun-hyung runs past Bok-joo in the stadium: Donut high five!
Bok-ju throws a coin into the fountain, mutters a prayer. Jun-hyung appears: Donut! Don’t you dare call me that. I hit guys too. Sorry, Donut, I’m used to it, I can’t. Bok-joo calls Jun-hyung over to him, he comes up, tilts his head, trying to hear what they say to him. The girl suddenly headbutts him. Don’t run up! A friend asks Jun-hyung: why are you attached to her? Do you like her? No. I just like to tease her.
Bok-ju complains to his girlfriends: I just hate him! Yes, you like him! I just don’t have time for guys, I’m always busy in training.
Bok-ju comes to the cafe to his father, takes the order by phone. Her father scolds her: now you eat twice as much as usual, I’m tired of supporting you. And you’re missing workouts. You are fired! Then let’s count. Bok-ju undertakes to deliver the order for the last time. She carries him on a moped. It was Jun-hyung who decided to treat his friends. Bok-ju asks him to pay, he says that he will pay after he tries the delivered dish. Sit down with us! Bok-joo says that Jun-hyung doesn’t have to pay. This is her apology to him. She gets on a moped and leaves. Jun-hyung tries to catch up with her, but can’t keep up. He reproaches himself for not paying off with the girl. Jun-hyung searches for Bok-joo’s father’s cafe, brings friends there, orders the same dishes. When paying, he tells Bok-joo’s father that he owes him, so he pays the extra money now. After the clients leave, Bok-ju’s father tells his brother: it’s strange, because I don’t lend money to anyone. So he was just wrong.
The weightlifting team boards the bus. Athletes ask: where is our bus? We just won’t fit in here. The head coach tells his assistant coach Choi that their club’s budget has been cut by 30%. But after all, recently we have already reduced it by 10%. Nothing can be done, everyone complains about inflation. We also win few awards. But how are we going to feed our children?
The team returns to the hostel. The coach commands: before going to bed in the sauna, do not forget about stretching. What about dinner? Did I promise? Yes! Coaches distribute hamburgers to children. They complain: do you get enough of it! Coach Choi gives his hamburger to the biggest member of the team: I’m not hungry. The head coach commands: get up! He leads the team to the cafe.
Jun-hyung meets Shi-ho at the dorm. She says: long time no see! I returned to you. It is unlikely that we will succeed, I just started to calm down. Okay, I was joking. Are we going to say hello? We will. We’re not children.
Shi-ho is practicing with the hoop. She can’t do anything. She opens a donut, stuffs her mouth.
Weightlifters have dinner in a cafe. Bok-ju tells his comrades his theory about the five stages of dinner: fried meat; marinated meat; fried rice; vegetables; bowl of cold noodles. So you can eat much more and gain twice as many calories.
Jun-hyung meets his brother Zhang-yi. He asks: are you still worried about your mother? How much can you whine! I’m already an adult.
Coach Tsoi reproaches the head coach for spending the night in the gym. You need to make peace with your wife, you love children, and she pulls money from you for clothes. She is still young! Stupidity has nothing to do with age. Go home and I’ll take care of the team.
Coach Choi brings food to the team. Have you found a new cafe? The taste is unusual.