Turf Toe
Turf toe is a condition in which the big toe bends upwards to an abnormal degree, causing pain at the bottom of the big toe, damage to the ligaments that connect the foot to the big toe, and damage to the joint capsule. A ligament is a tough band of tissue that attaches to joint bones. Ligaments normally prevent the joint from moving too much. A joint is a place where two bones contact each other. A joint capsule is a saclike structure of tissue that surrounds the ends of bones in certain types of joints and which contains a clear fluid that makes the joint move easier.
Turf toe is a form of a condition known as hallux limitus. Hallux limitus is defined as pain in the big toe and decreasing range of motion of the joint of the big toe. Range of motion means the degree in which a person can move a body part. Turf toe got its name because it often occurs to people who play games, such as football, on hard surfaces such as artificial turf (fake grass). |
Treatment: Doctors recommend treating turf toe in the following manner. First, the toe should immediately be iced after it has been injured. Next, a bandage or tape should be placed around the toe that compresses (squeezes together) the area. This helps rest the joint and reduce swelling. Heat is sometimes applied to the toe as well to provide pain relief. Another technique used is called a contrast bath, in which a person places the foot in hot water and then in cold water, repeating this process for a certain period of time. Contrast baths are used in the early stages of injury.
As much rest as possible is recommended, which usually involves elevating the foot while resting. Crutches may also be used to take pressure and weight off of the big toe. After 2 to 4 days, the person may be able to walk without the crutches. A brace is also recommended to protect the big toe by restricting its movement and preventing it from being injured again. If a person does not want to wear a brace, a shoe or boot should be worn that has a firm sole (bottom), which will not allow the big toe to bend. Sometimes, a Morton's extension is used to accomplish this, which is a type of pad fitted under the joint of the big toe.
As much rest as possible is recommended, which usually involves elevating the foot while resting. Crutches may also be used to take pressure and weight off of the big toe. After 2 to 4 days, the person may be able to walk without the crutches. A brace is also recommended to protect the big toe by restricting its movement and preventing it from being injured again. If a person does not want to wear a brace, a shoe or boot should be worn that has a firm sole (bottom), which will not allow the big toe to bend. Sometimes, a Morton's extension is used to accomplish this, which is a type of pad fitted under the joint of the big toe.