Football Season Means Turf Toe Injuries
At this time of year, we see young athletes – and weekend warriors too – with sprains of the big toe. This type of injury is called “turf toe” and occurs when the big toe hyperextends, or is sprained, when pushing off the ground. The injury gets its name from football players pushing their toe off of artificial turf. An artificial surface is harder than natural grass and doesn’t give much when pressure is placed on it.
You don’t have to be a football player to have a sprained big toe. Dancers are also at risk, as are gymnasts and wrestlers and those who play basketball and soccer.
Take Action Quickly When the Big Toe Hurts During Sports
If your child’s big toe begins to hurt during sports or other activities, the best thing you can do is stop the workout. Use the RICE method until you can get professional help: Rest, apply Ice, put on a Compression bandage and Elevate the leg.
Over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, can help relieve symptoms of pain and swelling.
Come see us if the pain is persistent. We will check for bruising and swelling and evaluate the range of motion of the joint. If needed, we will take X-rays to rule out a fracture and an MRI scan to check for soft tissue injury.
We will treat the injury based on our findings. In many cases, taping the toe to the smaller toes to restrict motion is successful. A custom-fitted orthotic can help reduce stress on the area and restore stability. Strengthening and stretching exercises will reduce joint stiffness and help with flexibility.
For more serious injuries, a walking boot or cast can help immobilize the toe and promote healing. Physical therapy, especially with joint movement, can help prevent joint stiffness.
In the event of severe tears, fracture, cartilage damage, or joint instability, we will discuss surgical options with you.
Turf Toe Can Be Successfully Treated If Caught Early
The foot specialists at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center have extensive experience in treating all aspects of foot problems. Our team of doctors which consists of Dr. Robert Marra, Dr. Thomas Johnson, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and Dr. Matthew Tshudy is dedicated to serving you with all of the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies. Many treatments and surgeries can be handled right in our offices. Please call us at (860) 741-3041 to make an appointment in one of our offices in Hartford County, conveniently located in Enfield and South Windsor, CT.