How it happens:
A turf toe injury occurs when the great toe is forced upward, causing sprains or tears of the plantar ligaments and tendons.
How to prevent:
When playing on turf or other surfaces that require cutting, stiff shoes that prevent upward motion of the great toe prevent this injury.
How to identify the condition:
Common symptoms of turf toe include pain in the great toe, swelling, a limp, and an inability to run on the foot. In chronic conditions, stiffness and pain with bending the big toe are common.
How to treat:
Acute sprains are treated initially with Rest, Ice, taping / compression wrapping, Elevation, and casting to prevent great toe motion. As the acute phase resolves physical therapy can rehabilitate the surrounding musculature.
When to expect surgery:
With complete tearing of the tissues around the great toe, surgical repair is required. Less severe injuries that do not recover and chronic conditions may also benefit from great toe reconstructive surgery.