Big Toe Archives - New England Podiatry

Did you know that turf toe refers to the big toe? Often associated with football, this painful hyperextension can happen to any athlete. That’s why today, we at New England Podiatry Associates are explaining everything you need to know about it, from symptoms and causes to treatment and prevention.

Symptoms

Turf toe is characterized by pain in the big toe joint, and it is often described as a sharp or stabbing sensation. Other symptoms may include swelling, bruising, stiffness, and difficulty walking or running.

Causes

Turf toe occurs when the big toe is hyperextended, thus forcing it beyond its normal range of motion. This can happen due to various factors, including:

Sudden stops and starts: Sports that involve sudden changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, or football, can increase risk.
Direct impact: Trauma to the big toe, such as a tackle or collision.
Improper cleats: Inadequate support or cushioning from athletic footwear.

It’s also known that turf toe is most contracted on artificial turf as opposed to grass due to the ground’s lack of cushion (hence the term).

Treatment

Treatment for turf toe typically involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Other treatment options may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen that can help reduce pain and inflammation. Talk with your podiatrist prior to taking these.

Custom orthotics can also provide support and cushioning for the big toe joint, whereas taping or bracing can help stabilize the joint and reduce pain. Physical therapy may also be necessary to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve flexibility.

Preventing Turf Toe

To prevent turf toe, wear appropriate footwear, warm up properly (which will strengthen the muscles surrounding your big toe), and don’t neglect signs of pain coming from the area. By taking these steps, you can help reduce the risk and maximize your playing time on the field.

At New England Podiatry Associates, Dr. Ronald Etskovitz, Dr. Raymond Murano III, Dr. Catherine Jacobs, Dr. Joshua Ouellette, and Dr. Zachary Sax are always pleased to assist. We offer convenient locations in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Middlesex Counties. Contact our Chestnut Hill office at 617-232-1752 and our Newton-Wellesley office at 617-630-8280 to schedule an appointment today.

Prevent 3 Foot Conditions with Regular Check-Ups

It’s all too easy to neglect your feet and ankles until pain signals a problem. Unfortunately, by waiting that long, patients often incur other injuries and related conditions, many of which are difficult, unpleasant, or time-consuming to resolve & prevent.

Think of a podiatric checkup as an investment in your future foot health – a proactive approach that can save you from the aches, pains, and costs of more advanced conditions. New England Podiatry is all about early intervention, so we’ve put together some info on 3 common foot and ankle issues that early detection by a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) can help you prevent.

1–Athlete’s Foot:

This contagious issue, one of the many fungal infections that strike at the feet, thrives in sweaty spaces such as shoes and locker rooms. Left unchecked, it spreads to your nails, causing painful cracks, itching, and burning. Early diagnosis and treatment can nip it in the bud, sparing you embarrassment and discomfort.

2–Bunions:

These bony bumps at the base of your big toe develop due to pressure and misalignment. While slow-growing, they distort your toes, leading to pain, inflammation, and walking difficulties. Regular foot checks by a DPM identify developing bunions and suggest corrective measures like orthotics or early intervention surgery, preventing the need for invasive procedures later.

3–Plantar Fasciitis:

This inflammation of the ligament supporting your arch is a common source of heel pain. Ignoring it leads to chronic discomfort, impacting mobility and daily activities. A DPM assesses your gait, recommends custom orthotics, and suggests stretches or physical therapy to address the root cause, sparing you months of pain and limitations.

It’s always best to stay a step ahead of problems before they are exacerbated by inattention or neglect, but sometimes that just isn’t possible. Luckily, New England Podiatry makes use of the most powerful and innovative technology around to treat all of the issues above. If you’re in need, we can help!