What Is Turf Toe? How a Common Sports Injury Can Sideline Even Pros Like Malik Nabers
When you think of football injuries, ankle sprains, concussions, or torn ligaments probably come to mind. But one of the most notorious—and often underestimated—in sports medicine is turf toe.
Recently, New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers has been managing a lingering turf toe injury as the 2025 NFL season approaches. While turf toe might sound like a minor sprain, it can seriously limit speed, agility, and push-off power—skills athletes like Nabers rely on for peak performance.
What Exactly Is Turf Toe?
Turf toe is a sprain of the big toe joint (the first metatarsophalangeal joint). It happens when the toe bends too far upward—often on artificial turf, which provides less give than grass. This overstretches or tears the soft tissue supporting the joint.
Common Causes
- Sudden stops or explosive push-offs during sports
- Playing on artificial turf
- Wearing flexible, lightweight shoes without enough forefoot support
- Direct trauma to the toe
Symptoms of Turf Toe
- Pain at the base of the big toe
- Swelling and stiffness
- Reduced ability to push off the foot
- Bruising in more severe cases
Why It’s a Big Deal for Athletes
The big toe plays a major role in propulsion during running, jumping, and cutting movements. Even a mild turf toe injury can slow a player down and affect performance for weeks or months if not treated properly.
How We Treat Turf Toe at Align Foot & Ankle
Dr. Ho-Ellsworth takes a comprehensive approach, which may include:
- Digital X-rays for accurate diagnosis and to rule out fractures
- Rest and activity modification to prevent worsening the injury
- Supportive taping or stiff-soled shoes to limit painful motion
- Custom orthotics to offload the joint and aid recovery
- Class IV Remy laser therapy to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing
- SoftWave Shockwave therapy to stimulate tissue repair and speed recovery
- DPMX regenerative injections to promote soft tissue healing from within
- Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and flexibility
When to See Dr. Ho-Ellsworth
If you have pain at the base of your big toe after sports—or notice swelling and trouble pushing off—it’s best to get evaluated quickly. Early diagnosis and treatment can mean the difference between a short recovery and a lingering problem.
Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Ho-Ellsworth.
Align Foot & Ankle | 1600 W 1600 W 38th St #408, Austin, TX 78731
512-882-4911
Don’t forget to check out our socials for valuable insights and updates:
