The big toe is surrounded by a series of ligaments, tendons, fibrous tissues, joint capsule and bones. This structure stabilises the joint. However, with sudden force or repetitive jamming, the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) or the big toe joint can become strained. This is referred to as turf toe.
Turf toe usually happens in sports such as Football, Rugby and Athletics.
Symptoms of Turf Toe
This injury can be sudden or, it may be a gradual injury caused by repetitive movement. The symptoms of turf toe includes;
- Immediate pain that worsens within 24 hours
- Swelling of the area
- Pain may gradually worsen over time
- A ‘pop’ may be felt
- Limited joint movement at the base of the big toe.
What are the Causes?
Turf toe is a sports injury caused when the forefoot is fixed on the ground, the heel is raised and the big toe is pushing off the ground. If continually repeated or performed with enough force, it can sprain the ligaments that surround the MTP joint.
Sports that have a higher risk of this injury include;
- Sports played on artificial grass
- Grass surfaces where shoes do not provide enough support
- Wearing flexible shoes when playing sport that let the foot bend too far forward.
If turf toe is suspected, ensure you seek advice from your podiatrist to provide the most appropriate treatment.
Treatment
The following treatment will most likely be prescribed if turf toe is diagnosed;
- RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- Strapping
- Offload Padding
- Footwear AdviceOrthotics
- Low Level Laser Therapy.
It can take two to three weeks for the initial pain to decrease, after which some physical therapy may be required to strengthen and re-establish the range of motion in the toe.
Moreland Podiatry – Turf Toe
If you suspect you have turf toe, visit your local Podiatrist for an assessment. If you have any questions about symptoms or treatment for this injury, feel free to contact Moreland Podiatry or book an appointment online today.
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