Turf Toe

Turf toe is a sprain of the largest joint found in the big toe. When the big toe is bent upwards (hyperextended) this injury can occur. Turf Toe is seen in many sports; think about starting a 100m sprint race and pushing off from your back toes, or tripping on a hole in the pitch during a rugby game, causing your toes to hyperextend (ouch). It can happen anytime the heel is raised and the front of the foot is placed on the ground. Basically in any sport or activity involving movement. 

The term turf toe refers to an injury of any soft tissue structure in the plantar complex. 

Once diagnosed, The Turf Toe injury is usually graded from 1 to 3. 

• Grade 1. The plantar complex is stretched. You mIght experience mild pain and inflammation
• Grade 2. A partial tearing of the plantar complex which caused pain, inflammation and movement is often limited in the big toe
• Grade 3. Completely tear of the Plantar Complex which makes movement in the toe very difficult. Severe pain, bruising and inflammation often accompanies this injury

The diagram below shows some of the issues in reduction in movement following a Turf Toe related injury 
So you have been diagnosed with Turf Toe.. now what? 

1. Rest, especially from sports or any activity that may have caused the injury (for example football)
2. Cold or Ice treatment on the injury site
3. Compression around the foot can help prevent any additional inflammation or swelling
4. Elevation of your foot and leg
5. Over-the-counter pain medicine may help manage the pain. Always check with your doctor and do not exceed the recommended dose