What are the treatment options for turf toe?

Turf toe is a sprain of the soft tissues beneath the big-toe joint, often caused when the toe bends upward forcefully. Pain, swelling, bruising, and pain during push-off can make walking difficult. The extent of tissue injury and the stability of the joint determine how much protection is needed.

Stop sport and reduce walking that causes pain. Elevate the foot and use a wrapped cold pack for brief periods. Shoes with a firm sole can limit painful toe bending. [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/) may support the joint when advised. Once the injury is ready, [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can restore toe and ankle movement, calf strength, balance, and controlled push-off. Return to running or field sports should be gradual and based on comfortable walking and loading.

Arrange prompt assessment after a forceful injury if you cannot bear weight, the toe looks deformed, swelling is substantial, or bruising spreads. Urgent help is needed for numbness, a cold or discoloured toe, an open wound, or worsening pain despite rest.

Ask whether the joint is stable, how long to use stiff support, which movements are safe now, and what functional signs should be present before returning to sport.