Causes and risk factors
Turf toe is a more commonly seen injury in football players and athletes. The incidence has increased due to the use of artificial turfs on play fields. Injury or fall caused during a motor vehicle accident is another common cause of injury. Forcible bending of the toe while involved in certain activities like playing football or taking a sprint can also lead to sprain of big toe. Usage of poorly supported shoes during some sports can also add up to the causation. It can also be seen in heavy weight lifters due to accidental injury while lifting and holding the weights.
Clinical presentation:
The symptoms with which the person can come up are: Sudden acute excruciating pain around the big toe joint with recent history of fall or trauma. Swelling and stiffness is seen. The patient experiences difficulty in movement of the toe or on walking. Slight pressure aggravates the pain. On examination, tenderness is present.
Investigations:
The local examination of the affected foot is carried out, the symptoms narrated by the patient along with x-ray is usually sufficient for diagnosis. MRI can be done to know the extent of injury to the ligaments and surrounding tissues.
Treatment:
Application of ice packs to the affected area is advised. The neck is supported with soft collars around. Pain relieving medications or medications to relieve the spasms are prescribed. Massaging the area of tenderness will also be effective. In severe cases, cervical traction is needed. After recovery, which takes about a week’s time in mild cases or longer in severe cases, stretching exercises and mobilization is advised.
Other modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture, which is the science of insertion of fine needles on certain stimulating spots on the body, has been proven to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
