Turf toe is a condition that affects the ligaments or other soft tissue under the big toe.

However, it can also affect people who are not athletes.

kumacore / Getty Images

What Is Meant By a “Turf Toe” Injury?

Turf sports field

kumacore / Getty Images

“Turf toe” describes an injury to themetatarsophalangealjoint.

Turf toe typically occurs from athletic injuries, commonly in athletes who play on artificial turf.

However, it can occur while playing on grass or other surfaces or during non-sports activities.

Or, it can be an acute injury, meaning that it occurs suddenly, causing immediate pain.

A healthcare provider will ask about recent activities that may have caused or contributed to the injury.

They will also do a physical exam to assess pain, swelling, and range of motion.

What Is Turf Toe Treatment?

A healthcare provider will determine turf toe treatment based on the severity of the injury.

It is typically done if the joint is unstable or when conservative treatment is unsuccessful.

Recovery Time From Turf Toe

Recovery from turf toe depends on the severity of your injury.

It can take up to six months to return to normal.

Grades 2 and 3 injuries take longer to heal.

Your recovery timeline and return to activity depend on the severity of your injury.

It is named after the most common cause of the injuryplaying sports on artificial turf.

These injuries vary in severity but typically improve with conservative treatment.

In rare cases, surgery is required.

Returning to high-level sports activities after more severe injuries can take six months.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Turf toe.

Mass General Brigham.Turf toe.

Foot Health Facts.RICE protocol.

Najefi AA, Jeyaseelan L, Welck M.Turf toe.EFORT Open Rev.

2010;29(1):157-167. doi:10.1016%2Fj.csm.2009.09.006