Turf Toe
Turf Toe Specialist in Kansas City, MO
Turf Toe Doctors in Missouri
Turf toe occurs when the ligament under the big toe hyperextends. This happens when your heel lifts while your toe remains on the ground. This can force your toe to hyperextend. When this happens, tissue and ligaments in your big toe can tear. This is a common injury among football players and other athletes who play on turf. However, any activity that causes the toe to bend forcibly upwards can cause injury.
What are the Different Grades of Turf Toe Injury?
A grading system is helpful when it comes to assessing the severity of a turf toe injury. This system allows our specialists to create an appropriate treatment plan. The grading system includes:
- Grade 1—With these injuries, the soft tissue is only stretched. The area may be sensitive or swollen. Rest, ice, compression, elevation, and anti-inflammatory medication are usually the only treatments needed.
- Grade 2 – With these injuries, the soft tissue is partially torn. The area is painful, swollen, and bruised. Along with the same treatment as grade one, you may need to wear a walking boot, limit activity for two weeks, and perform various movement exercises.
- Grade 3—These injuries involve completely torn soft tissues. The area will be severely swollen and painful. Movement will be difficult, and you may need a walking boot for up to three weeks. Physical therapy is recommended.
What are the Symptoms of Turf Toe?
Symptoms of turf toe can range from mild to severe, depending on the injury. Sudden injury may come with a popping sensation followed by pain. Repetitive injuries are more likely to worsen slowly over time. Some common symptoms of turf toe often include:
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Pain, especially with activity
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Swelling
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Bruising
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Tenderness to the touch
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Limited motion of the toe
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Inability to put weight on the toe due to pain
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A loose toe joint that dislocates
If you experience any of these symptoms after an injury, our Kansas City orthopedic urgent care walk-in clinics are available six days a week.
What is the Recovery Time for Turf Toe?
Recovery time for turf toe depends on the severity of the injury, ranging from a few days to months. Cases of severe trauma can cause long-term stiffness, damage, or decreased ability to run or jump using the injured foot. It is essential to treat turf toe properly and give yourself plenty of recovery time to ensure these things do not happen. This may include orthotics, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Leading Foot Doctors in Kansas City
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and book an appointment with one of our Kansas City ankle and foot specialists. They will perform a complete examination, diagnosing and ultimately treating any problem. From simple physical therapy to complicated surgery, you’re in good hands with Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, and we will do what it takes to get you active again.
Nathan J. Kiewiet, M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Foot & Ankle