By: Kristen Rodriguez, Jala Mitchell, Gage Holder Toe Injuries By: Kristen Rodriguez, Jala Mitchell, Gage Holder

Turf Toe What is it? A sprain of the joint capsule at the base of the big toe. The injury is called turf toe because of the frequent MTP joint sprains that occur while playing on artificial turf. Turf toe happens when you bend your big toe to extend it towards the top of the foot too far. Also known as hyperextension. This hyperextension can cause sprain to the ligaments in the toe. (M.D. William, M., 2017) https://www.uwhealth.org/sports-medicine/clinic/turf-toe/13071

Signs and Symptoms The Signs and Symptoms of Turf Toe Are: Pain, swelling, limited joint movement at the base of one big toe The symptoms develop slowly and gradually get worse over time if it’s caused by repetitive injury. Sometimes when the injury occurs, a "pop" can be felt (WebMD, n.d. p.2)

Population Athletes who acquire turf toe- american football players play on turf, this means these athletes are prone to turf toe. A player's height, weight, length of second toe and shoe type were not factors that contributed to the incidence of turf toe. Turf toe occurred in 60% of the offensive players, compared with 32% on defense. The most affected positions were offensive line, running back, tight end and wide receiver (M.D. WIlliam, M., 2017).

Treatment/ Prevention Treatment usually does not require surgery. Treatment usually consists of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation). Walking in a boot can help healing and minimize discomfort. Stiff-soled shoes can also help. After rest and immobilization, the athlete begins to work on rehabilitation, which focuses on regaining motion and normal range. Athletic tape and proper shoes may also be helpful with healing (Sports Medicine Clinic, n.d.). https://www.uwhealth.org/sports-medicine/clinic/turf-toe/13071

Important facts/information The incidence of turf toe was higher among players 27 years of age or older and those in professional football at least five seasons. Players with good range of motion in their ankles were the most susceptible to the injury. "The more flexible the athlete is, the better able he is to get up on his toes [where a majority of the injuries occur]," O'Brien explains (Lieber, J. 1988).

Citations Lieber, J. (1988). TURF TOE: THE NFL'S MOST PESKY AGONY OF DA FEET. Retreieved From: https://www.si.com/vault/1988/12/12/119064/turf-toe-the-nfls-most-pesky-agony-of-da-feet M.D. William, M. (2017). Everything you should know about Turf Toe. Healthline. Retrieved From: https://www.healthline.com/health/turf-toe