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Fractures, Trauma & Sports Injuries

Turf Toe

Causes, symptoms, and treatment for turf toe, with care at 15 clinics across Middle Tennessee.

Part of Fractures, Trauma & Sports Injuries

Understanding turf toe and your options.

Turf toe is a sprain of the ligaments at the base of the big toe. It happens when the toe bends back too far. The joint that pushes you off the ground becomes sore and swollen.

It is most common in football, soccer, and dance, and on hard or flexible-soled footwear. Pain can start suddenly or build over time. Treating it early helps you avoid long-lasting stiffness in the toe.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788
Turf Toe care

Symptoms

Signs of turf toe.

If you notice these signs, an exam can give you clear answers.

  • 01

    Pain and swelling at the base of the big toe

  • 02

    Pain when you push off or go up on your toes

  • 03

    Bruising under or around the big toe joint

  • 04

    A stiff toe that will not bend or straighten well

Why it happens

What can cause turf toe.

  • 01

    Jamming the big toe while it is bent upward

  • 02

    Pushing off hard on turf or other firm ground

  • 03

    Thin, bendy shoes that offer little toe support

  • 04

    Repeated small injuries to the big toe joint

Care groupFractures, Trauma & Sports Injuries

Diagnosis and care

How we treat turf toe.

Step 1 · Diagnosis

We press around the big toe joint and test how far it moves and how strong it feels. X-rays help rule out a broken bone or shifted sesamoids. An MRI may be used if we think the ligaments are badly torn.

Step 2 · Treatment

Rest and ice help calm swelling early on. Taping the toe or using a stiff-soled shoe limits bending so the ligament can heal. A walking boot may be needed for a more serious sprain. Later, an orthotic with a stiff plate and physical therapy can help you return to running and jumping safely.

Most turf toe heals without surgery. Surgery may be an option if the joint is unstable, the sesamoid bones have moved, or pain lasts for many months.

Recovery

What to expect over time.

A mild case may settle in 1 to 3 weeks. A severe sprain may take 2 to 3 months or more, and rushing back can cause a setback.

When to book

Do not wait it out.

See a podiatrist if your big toe hurts to push off, swells, or bruises after an injury. Get help sooner if you cannot bear weight or the toe looks crooked.

Call 615-220-8788

Related care

More in Fractures, Trauma & Sports Injuries.

FAQ

Your questions answered.

Can I play through turf toe?

Playing on it can make the sprain worse and last longer. We can advise on tape or a shoe insert if you need to return early.

Why does my big toe still feel stiff?

Scar tissue and a tight joint can remain after the sprain settles. Gentle motion work and therapy often help.

Get help with turf toe.

Request an appointmentCall 615-220-8788

Where we treat it

Turf Toe care at 15 clinics.

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