Toe sprains can really put a damper on your summer fun, so make sure you do everything possible to stay healthy and safe. After all, there is only one month left of these lazy summer days so enjoy them while you can because before you know it the kids will be back in school and fall will be upon us.
Anyone can sprain their toe if conditions are right. All it takes is for the toe to be pushed beyond its normal range of motion. However, more often than not people who are athletic tend to be the victims of a toe sprain. People who play sports on artificial turf, such as football players, are even more susceptible to this type of injury, thus earning its name “turf toe”. Dancers, specifically ballet dancers, may also be at high risk. This is because the big toe may be sprained when pushing your foot off the ground. If the rest of your foot moves but the toe stays in place it can result in a painful sprain.
If you do happen to sprain your toe it’s important to get immediate help. You will want it because the pain will probably be severe. First aid should include RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This will help promote pain relief and healing while also decreasing the amount of pain you feel. In some cases your doctor may recommend buddy taping the sprained toe to the healthy to next to it. You may also be required to undergo some physical therapy, especially if you are an athlete. You will want to make sure that your toes and feet get back to full strength before returning to your sport.
We know it’s frustrating to injure yourself when you are a very active person, but sometimes your body just needs a little rest. The most important thing is to let yourself heal completely and then get back to it with gusto! In the meantime, if you have any questions about toe sprains please call Dr. Mitchell Wachtel at (978) 794-8406 to schedule an appointment with us in one of three Massachusetts offices.