Metatarsophalangeal Joint Sprain, or Turf Toe, is a condition where the ligament underneath your big toe hyperextends causing a sprain and damaging the plantar capsuloligamentous complex.
Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe due to the hyperextension of the ligament under the big toe, which leads to damage of the plantar capsuloligamentous complex. This may cause tearing or disruption of these structures, destabilising the big toe joint.
Turf toe is a graded condition with recovery times ranging from 2-12 weeks depending on severity. This condition is common in those who play football and athletes who sprint or jump a lot.
Turf Toe is caused when you sprain your big toe by bending it too far or too forcefully. This happens when you plant your toe and raise your heel.
Usually during playing sports, for example, when you are pushing off the ground to start running and your toe gets stuck on the ground.
Symptoms may vary due to severity of the condition, but may include:
This condition is treated with rest, ice and physical therapy; your physiotherapist will use soft tissue release and strengthening exercises to treat turf toe.
Along with:
Your physiotherapist may recommend a splint to be worn at night to stretch and realign your toe joint.
There are several things you can do from home to help relieve the pain of turf toe.
They include:
Are you suffering from Turf Toe? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
