You're walking barefoot across a beach, stepping onto your porch in flip-flops, or simply chasing your grandchild across the yard. Then, suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in your big toe. It's stiff, swollen, and painful to bend. You might write it off as a stub or minor sprain, but the truth is, it could be something more.
What you're experiencing might be turf toe, and while the name brings to mind pro athletes on artificial turf, this injury is not exclusive to sports. At OrthoNJ, we often see an uptick in turf toe cases during the summer months, especially among everyday people just out and about enjoying the season.
If that sounds like you, keep reading to learn what you need to know about turf toe: what it is, how it happens during common summer activities, how to treat it, and most importantly, how to prevent it in the first place.
Turf toe is the spraining of the ligaments at the base of the big toe joint, technically known as the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. This joint connects the big toe to the foot and is essential for walking, running, and balance.
The injury occurs when the toe bends too far upward (hyperextension), either suddenly (as with a stumble or misstep) or over time with repeated stress. This overstretching can damage the joint's supporting structures: ligaments, tendons, and even cartilage.
Originally dubbed "turf toe" because it was common among football players on artificial turf, the term now describes the mechanics of the injury, not the context. That means you don't have to be an athlete to suffer from it. In fact, it often strikes everyday people enjoying summer activities, especially when you:
These seemingly low-impact activities can create just enough motion and pressure to injure the joint, especially when repeated over time or when done without proper footwear.
Turf toe can feel like a simple sore joint at first. But unlike everyday aches, the pain from the turf toe injury persists and often worsens with activity. If you have turf toe, symptoms typically include:
Grade 1 injuries might feel like a nuisance. Grade 2 or 3 injuries can make it difficult, or impossible, to walk without limping. If left untreated, turf toe can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, or long-term joint instability.
Some patients try to "tough it out," assuming their toe will get better on its own. But turf toe isn't just a bruise, it's a ligament injury, and without the right care, it can become a recurring or chronic problem.
That's why we recommend seeing an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist if the pain lasts more than a few days, interferes with walking, or worsens with movement.
OrthoNJ is different from your typical medical provider. Unlike many in the industry, we prioritize patient care over profits. Our six divisions work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We believe in the "Power to Put Patients First," our doctors and divisional partners strive to uphold this commitment to our patients in every aspect of our medical care.
At OrthoNJ, we always start with a conversation and a physical exam. Our physicians take the time to understand how you injured the joint, your activity level, and what outcomes matter most to you. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRI may be used to determine the severity.
Once diagnosed, treatment usually begins with conservative, non-surgical options, especially for Grade 1 and 2 injuries:
In rare, severe cases (Grade 3), surgery may be required to repair torn ligaments or stabilize the joint. Fortunately, ONJ's fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specialize in foot and toe injuries and perform hundreds of procedures annually. If surgery is needed, you're in expert hands.
When you're in pain, the last thing you need is to feel like a number or be shuffled between non-physician providers. That's why ONJ was built to be different.
We're the largest independent orthopedic group in New Jersey, with over 100 board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians across six divisions. This size allows us to offer statewide coverage and shared expertise, but our independence means you always get:
Whether you visit our Ridgewood division in North Jersey or Brielle Orthopaedics near the shore, you can count on consistent, high-quality care grounded in the ONJ promise:
The Power to Put Patients First.
Turf toe can be painful, but it's also often preventable. Here are some simple ways to protect your feet this summer:
Whether your turf toe came from chasing kids in the yard or an accidental twist on the beach, it deserves real attention and the proper care. Let's get you walking comfortably again. At OrthoNJ, our specialists treat people, not just problems. We're here to listen, diagnose, and help you get back to doing what you love, comfortably and confidently.
Let's get your summer—and your steps—back on track.
You don't have to stay in pain. Contact one of our ONJ divisions to schedule an appointment.
This treatment info is for informational purposes only. Treatment and recovery vary person to person, and you should consult with your treating physician and team for details on your treatment and recovery process.
