Turf Toe| Pain,
stiffness, redness, and/or swelling at the base of the big toe, near the
ball of the foot, may be indications of "turf toe". Turf toe is is aid to
occur more frequently in players who practice and play on artificial turf
(i.e., "Astroturf") which may be or become harder and less shock absorbent
than natural grass, and which provides a better grip (greater friction) to
an athlete's footwear. Turf toe results from hyperextension (i.e., jamming
or repeatedly pushing off, as, when starting to run or jump) with the big
toe. There is anecdotal evidence that suggests turf toe may be caused by
wearing footwear that is too large (i.e., are too long), since the longer
toe portion increases the bending lever arm of the shoe. The 1st MPJ (first
metatarsophalangeal joint) capsule at the base of the toe gets torn, hence
the technical name of "plantar capsular ligament sprain". Treatment is similar to that of sprains: rest, ice, elevation, anti-inflammatory medications, and avoidance of the sport for about 3 weeks. The toe may also be 'strapped" to reduce its motion during the healing period. Footwear with stiffer toes may restrict bending. Turf toe is a persistent condition and can return even if proper rest and rehabilitation have been followed. Ultrasound, orthotics, and even surgery may be necessary in recurrent and persistent cases. An MRI is generally needed to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms: fracture, disclocation, and tendonitis, and other inflammations. |