Participating in spring sports can be a great way to get exercise and have fun with friends. Soccer, baseball, softball, tennis, track and so many other sports are all available to join and enjoy while the weather gets warmer. Sports are not only great for your heart; they can also be good for your feet. Stretching and exercise can keep feet primed and ready to go. Sadly, even the most seasoned athletes can be injured while on the field, no matter how much exercise and practice they have under their belts. One of the most common sports foot and ankle injuries that occur during sports season is called Turf Toe.
What Is Turf Toe?
When you get pain in your toe from a sprain during sports activities, this is considered turf toe. This sprain usually happens due to the big toe bending upward rapidly and unexpectedly. The toe bends up so much that it stretches out the muscles, tendons and ligaments and causes the sprain. This injury can also occur when you jam your toe, run for a long time, or jump repeatedly. Any sports athlete can suffer from this injury, but it is most commonly reported in those who play football.
Causes
Turf toe gets its name because those who are afflicted with this condition usually get it while playing on a turf field. This is because turf tends to be sticky. When the foot catches and gets stuck, it is easy to come down and jam your toe on the turf, resulting in the injury. Another reason this injury can happen is due to poor choice in sports footwear. Cleats and sneakers that do not have the proper support can cause strain on the foot and cause this injury.
Symptoms
- pain
- swelling
- limited joint movement
If turf toe is caused by the jamming of the toe, it is likely that the recipient of the injury will feel the injury right away. If the injury is from overuse, the symptoms will slowly start over time and gradually worsen.
Turf toe can be a very painful foot problem that can cause less mobility and more time off the field. In order to get back into the game, contact a podiatrist for the best course of treatment. Call Dr. Andrew H. Cohen of Mid-Michigan Foot & Ankle Center located in Saginaw and Bay City, Michigan. You can reach our office line at 989-790-8009 or make an appointment online today. Turf toe can be healed with treatment from a podiatrist.
When you get pain in your toe from a sprain during sports activities, this is considered turf toe and it's due to the big toe bending upward rapidly and unexpectedly.