Turf toe is one of the most common sports injuries. However, many athletes do not know exactly what it is until they experience it. If you have been diagnosed with turf toe, here is what you need to know.
What Is Turf Toe?
Although turf toe might give the indication that it is an injury that can only occur on a football field, it is common in many other sports, too. The injury is basically a sprain of the main joint in your big toe. It occurs when the toe is suddenly and forcefully bent up.
For instance, when you are in position for a race, your shoe is pushed downwards to the ground. When your body's weight shifts, pressure is placed on the toe. The shift in weight causes damage to the joint and the ligaments. The injury can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.
What Can You Do?
After the injury, one of the most important steps you can take is to ice your big toe. Ice helps to prevent swelling. If your foot has already begun to swell, the ice will help to alleviate the inflammation and reduce the swelling. It will also help with relieving any pain that you have experienced.
In addition to this, you can use a compression bandage. The bandage provides the support that is needed for your toe while healing. It is important to note that the bandage should only be used for a short period. The bandage works to slow blood flow for a temporary period. However, wearing it longer can hurt your recovery.
You also need to rest your foot. Keeping the weight off your big toe will give it the time needed to heel. If you continue to apply pressure to it, the injury could worsen. At the very least, you should wear a shoe that is firm enough to prevent bending of the toe.
What If the Symptoms Continue?
If your big toe continues to swell or cause pain, you need to see your podiatrist. The podiatrist can determine if there is a more serious injury than turf toe. For instance, he or she can rule out a stress fracture.
The podiatrist can also treat your foot for the injury. There are several treatment options, including electrotherapy treatment. Surgical treatment is possible in some rare instances. Surgery is usually not recommended until after the other forms of treatment have not been as successful. For more information, visit a website such as http://www.camdencountyfootandankle.com.
Share