http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinf...l-fractures.htm
Consequences of Improper Treatment
Some people say that "the doctor can't do anything for a broken bone in the foot." This is usually not true. In fact, if a fractured toe or metatarsal bone is not treated correctly, serious complications may develop. For example:
A deformity in the bony architecture which may limit the ability to move the foot or cause difficulty in fitting shoes.
Arthritis, which may be caused by a fracture in a joint (the juncture where two bones meet), or may be a result of angular deformities that develop when a displaced fracture is severe or hasn't been properly corrected.
Chronic pain and long-term dysfunction.
Non-union, or failure to heal, can lead to subsequent surgery or chronic pain.