Martin Foot and Ankle
717-757-3537
800-456-0076
Turf Toe
Please use our podiatric library to learn more about foot problems and treatments available. If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us.
"The podiatrists at Martin Foot and Ankle treat all foot and ankle conditions including heel pain, diabetic foot care, bunions, shock wave therapy, and those associated with sports medicine."
Big toe injuries, known as turf toe, result from hyperextension of the big toe joint as the heel is raised off the ground. An external force is placed on the big toe, and the soft tissue structures that support the big toe on the top are torn or ruptured.
Turf toe often arises from participation in team sports. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling of the toe joint. There is often a sudden acute onset of pain during a push-off phase of running. Usually, the pain is not enough to keep the athlete from physical activities or finishing a game. This causes further injury to the big toe and can dramatically increase the healing time required.
Treatment includes rest, icing, compression, and equipment modification or change. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used for relief of minor pain as well as to decrease the inflammation of the injury. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.
