Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint that occurs when the toe bends too far backward, stretching or tearing the soft tissues that support it. This injury commonly affects athletes who play on hard or artificial surfaces, such as football or soccer players. But this type of toe sprain can also develop in gymnasts, dancers, or wrestlers who frequently push off the front of the foot. Symptoms include pain at the base of the big toe, swelling, bruising, and stiffness, which can make walking or bending the toe difficult. The severity can range from mild overstretching to complete tearing of the ligaments around the joint. Turf toe can develop suddenly from a single forceful movement or gradually through repetitive stress on the toe. A podiatrist can diagnose turf toe, determine the extent of damage, and provide treatment options ranging from conservative care to surgery, in severe cases. If you are experiencing symptoms of turf toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Arnold Farbstein, DPM of Texas. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
