Turf toe
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Turf toe is the common term used to describe a sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint. Turf toe affects athletes in a range of different sports including football, soccer, basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, and dance. It is commonly associated more with sports played on artificial surfaces. It is a condition that’s caused by jamming the big toe or repeatedly pushing off the big toe forcefully as in running, jumping changing direction.
Turf toe refers to a hyperextension or hyperflexion of the big toe causing a capsular or ligament sprain of the 1st metatarsal phalangeal joint. Typically, the injury is sudden, and can happen in a range of different ways though unexpected contact like being tackled or losing balance falling forwards. Repeatedly moving that joint past it’s normal range of motion, slowing damaging joint.
The most common symptoms of turf toe include pain, swelling, and limited joint movement at the base of the big toe. If the injury has occurred suddenly, rest ice compression and elevation will be needed to be complete for at least the first 48 hours to try and reduce the swelling and protect the joint from further injury.
Certain biomechanical factors along with the use of inadequate footwear, and improper training techniques can predispose an athlete to this condition. At Coast Sport we can professionally diagnose what the underlying cause of the condition is and educate on the best treatment to get you back to your sport as soon as possible, While reducing the risk of the injury reoccurring.
Book an appointment at Coast Sport by calling (02) 4356 2588 or book online via the button below.
Thanks to Coast Sport Podiatrist Kane Domenici for preparing this blog. You can find out more about Kane here.
Kane practices as a Podiatrist at both Toukley (Toukley Family Practice) and Tuggerah (Tuggerah Medical Centre and Coast Sport).
Helping the Central Coast Feel Well, Move Well and Perform Well!