The Tough Luck Of Turf Toe

With football season coming to a close, the seriousness and prevalence of foot injuries

among college, highschool , and professional players is more apparent. Football players at all levels can be at risk for a numbers of foot injuries that can not only end their season, but leave them with lasting injuries. Turf Toe is one of those injuries, and already this season, we've seen it impact the season of Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back Willie Parker and Notre Dame Quarterback Jimmy Clausen. Dr. Robert Joseph D.P.M., Ph.D. relates that turf toe is caused by injury to the ligaments of the great toe joint when the joint is overstretched. Although it is most commonly associated with football injuries, it can occur with any sport prone to rapid changes in direction of running such as soccer or tennis. Once thought to be related to the unforgiving properties of artificial turf, greater understanding of foot and shoe gear mechanics show improper shoe selection and foot mechanics may also be risk factors for injury. According to Dr. Joseph, the great toe is associated with several types of sports related injuries than can be difficult for the layman or physician to distinguish. These injuries include fractures of the two small bones of the great toe joint called the sesamoids, rupture of ligaments, or injury to the cartilage of the joints" surface. Evaluation by a foot specialist is not only an integral part in determining the type of injury and treatment but also guides rehabilitation and proper shoe selection. Use of a proper shoe gear can reduce the risk of injury and at times, a carbon fiber foot plate with a mortons extension can be used to reduce joint strain as an athlete returns to sports after a turf toe injury. Dr. Joseph relates that proper shoe gear selection is not as easy for patients as it once was given the variety of shoe types, styles and technologies available. Choosing a knowledgeable and reputable shoe store can make a significant difference helping one get the right type of shoe recommended by your foot and ankle specialist.

by: Robert Joseph Phd, DPM

POST COMMENT

Avoiding "trail Running" Injuries Flips Flops: How Bad Are They For Your Feet? Shoe Technology: Fad Vs Function And How To Make The Right Choice For You Proper Sock Selection For Preventing Foot Injury Preventing Running Injury With Changes In Season Getting International Dance Shoes Finding Best Boat Shoes Eye Exercises To Improve Your Eyesight Naturally Six Secrets To Fat Loss Success Without Having To Exercise 3 Powerful Building Muscle Tips Body Sculpting: How To Get The Most Out Of It You Are In Denial If You Think You Don't Need Proper Exercise The Basics Of Bodybuilding Exercises