Turf Toe
Turf toe is a sports term for a
sprain injury of the big toe. The bottom capsule of
the big toe joint is sprained when the toe is pulled
into hyperextension (dorsiflexion). This tends to
happen with specific trauma that pulls the toe into
dorsiflexion, such as getting tackled in football,
trips, or falls. Soccer, field hockey, and lacrosse
have higher rates of injury.
A similar condition is found in
sports played on the sand when the toe is forced
into plantar flexion and the top of the capsule is
sprained. Here the toes are rolled under during the
injury. This is called sand toe.
Symptoms of Turf Toe
Pain, tenderness, and swelling
at the big toe are the most common symptoms. It
usually hurts to push off the big toe during
running. Bending and stretching the toe will cause
pain and tenderness in the joint. The severity and
intensity of pain will vary depending on the
severity of injury.
Home Treatments of Turf Toe
Rest and ice are important home
therapies. Turf toe has a tendency for prolonged
healing times and can easily be reaggravated.
Removing physical stress to the area will help
prevent prolonged recovery. Many people have a
tendency to think they can run through the pain,
which only causes greater injury.
 Office Treatments
Your provider will work to
decrease the pain and inflammation through
physiotherapy. Orthotics are utilized for some
individuals, as shoe modifications will be
recommended. Taping the big toe to provide greater
support can be helpful. Some cases may require
NSAIDS. Surgical consultations are required in
severe cases.
A sprain of your big toe will
take considerable time to heal. Rest and
conservative treatments are important and avoiding
activities that cause aggravation will result in the
quickest resolution to your injury.
Back to Chiropractic Resources
 Dr. Carson Robertson is in private practice at
Alpha Chiropractic. His clinic services the
chiropractic, massage therapy, and physiotherapy
needs of the Chandler, Ahwatukee, and Gilbert area.
He has a special interest in athletics, running, and
soft tissue injuries. Carson Robertson DC can be
reached at (480) 812-1800. |
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