Turf Toe of the IP Joint

Great toe injuries post 1^st mpj fusion

I saw an interesting case of turf toe this week.  The patient was a 63 y/o female who underwent 1^st mpj fusion for stage 4 hallux limitus in 2007.  The fusion was a success and the patient went on to be quite active in sports.

The patient presented to my office this week stating that 2 weeks ago she had caught her great toe in the pants cuff of a friend while walking.    The resulting fall caused an injury to the interphalangeal joint (IP joint) of the great toe.  The IP joint is the joint in the toe, close to the nail.  X-rays of the foot showed a stable fusion site with no indication of injury to the 1^st mpj.  But ironically, the primary injury was a hyperextension injury of the IP joint.  When this injury occurs at the 1^st mpj, it is classically called turf toe.  Could we call this injury of the IP joint turf toe?  I think we can.  This is the first case of IP joint turf toe that I’ve seen.  This is an unusual case that is directly due to the great toe fusion.

Treatment includes rest, ice, NSAID’s and use of a turf toe plate.  She should heal unremarkably.

Jeff

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM

Medical Advisor
Myfootshop.com

Updated 3-11-2021

Helpful Products

Halluxthotics™ GXT Fiberglass Turf Toe Supports

Halluxthotics™ GXT Fiberglass Turf Toe Arch Supports (formerly named Turf Toe Plates - Molded Glass Fiber) provide arch support while limiting the range of motion of the great toe joint. Used in the treatment of turf toe, hallux limitus, and hallux rigidus. See sizing information below. Sold as a pair. By Myfootshop.com.

As low as $76.45!

XTC Carbon Fiber Graphite Turf Toe Relief Insole

XTC Carbon Fiber Graphite Turf Toe Relief Insole (formerly named The Turf Toe Plate - Carbon Graphite - Flat) is thin enough to fit into most shoes and stiff enough to limit the range of motion of the great toe joint. Two sizes, sold singly. Universal right or left. By Myfootshop.com. 1/pkg.

As low as $50.96!

Turf Toe Plates - Flat Glass Fiber

Turf Toe Plates - Flat Glass Fiber are thin enough to fit into most shoes and stiff enough to limit the range of motion of the big toe joint. This rigid insole treats turf toe, hallux limitus, and hallux rigidus. Six sizes. Sold as a pair. By Myfootshop.com. 1 pair/pkg. **Product is being discontinued**

As low as $77.31!