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Turf Toe

By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com

Created: July 29, 2003

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Turf toe is a condition of pain at the base of the big toe, located at the ball of the foot. Turf toe is usually caused from either jamming the toe, or pushing off repeatedly when running or jumping. The most common complaint is pain at the base of the toe, but you may also have symptoms of stiffness and swelling.

The name turf toe comes from the fact that this injury is especially common among athletes who play on artificial turf. The hard surface of artificial turf, combined with running and jumping in football and soccer, make this a frequent consequence of astroturf play.

For more information: Turf Toe

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