Common Sports for Turf Toe

Turf toe is the term used to describe a sprain of the big toe metatarsophalangeal joint, where the toe joins the foot. This injury was named after the most common mechanism of injury; the big toe catches on artificial turf causing it to hyperextend or hyperflex. This causes damage to the surrounding ligaments and joint capsule. There are several sports that are associated with an increased risk of turf toe.

Football and Soccer

• Football and soccer players who play on artificial turf are at a high risk of developing turf toe. Artificial turf was designed in the 1960s as a grass alternative to provide a durable synthetic playing surface. Early turf designs were associated with a higher occurence of injury as the surface did not respond like grass and dirt, causing the impact forces through the leg to be greater. Artificial turf is associated with increased friction and decreased shock absoprtion. Over time new turf designs emerged that include "infill" made of pellets and sand to better simulate a grass and dirt surface.

Running

• Running is another sport that is associated with turf toe injuries, particularly when trail or cross country running exposes the runner to uneven surfaces. The risk of developing turf toe increases if the runner is not wearing properly fitted shoes. Trail running shoes are reinforced at the toe to provide more cushioning against impact with sharp objects. They also have thicker soles to cushion against roots and rocks which can cause the runner to lose his balance. Road runners can reduce the risk of developing turf toe by running on smooth, level surfaces.

Dancing

• Dancers are also at risk for the development of turf toe, particularly those who practice ballet. Ballet dancers spend a significant amount of time standing in the extreme position on the tips of the toes. This puts a high amount of stress through the big toe over a long period of time. Ligaments surrounding the toe become stretched out and stability of the joint is compromised.

Gymnastics

• Gymnasts can be at risk of turf toe. Most activities are performed in bare feet and frequently involve high impact jumping which causes significant forces to pass through the foot. The big toe absorbs much of this force as it is a major stabilizer for maintaining balance. In addition, gymnasts are at a high risk for traumatic turf toe when performing flips and other floor routines.