What is turf toe after the big toe bends too far upward?

Doctor’s answer

Turf toe is a sprain of the structures under the first metatarsophalangeal joint caused by excessive upward bending of the big toe. It is common in football, basketball, and dance and hurts during push-off, running, or rising onto the toes. Mild injuries may be protected with activity modification, taping, and a stiff-soled shoe; marked instability requires further assessment.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.