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Turf toe

Also called: Turf toe, jammed big toe

A sprain of the big toe joint from bending it too far back, common on artificial turf. Rest and stiff shoes help it heal.

Common inFootball, soccer, dancers
HealsWeeks to months
TreatmentRest, taping, stiff shoes

Overview

The ligaments under the big toe stretch or tear.

Severe tears may need a boot or surgery.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Big toe pain after bending it back
  • Big toe bent back or jammed

Less common

  • Swelling
  • Bruising

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayA crooked toe, or can't walk.
See a doctor soonPain lasting more than a week.

Causes

Bending the toe back forcefully.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Athletes on turf

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the toe.

Questions you may be asked

  • How it happened

The exam

Testing toe motion.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray or MRI:

Treatment

Protect the toe.

Self-care

  • Rest from activities that hurt
  • Ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day
  • Raise the area when you can
  • Wear stiff-soled shoes or a carbon plate
  • Tape the toe for support

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain relievers
Pain and swellingAsk first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent it:

  • Stiffer shoes

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Turf toe

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.