The key to successfully recovering from turf toe is refusing to rush the process. Your big toe needs to heal completely before you jump back into your sport. Otherwise you risk reinjuring it right away. Though a comeback strategy is tailored for your specific needs, there are some basic things to keep in mind:
- Recovery time depends on the severity. A minor sprain may only require a few days’ rest; however, a severe injury will need several weeks to heal.
- Protect the toe after the injury. Your toe will be fragile after a sprain, so you’ll need to protect it both when the damage first happens and when you begin your return to sports. Tape, elastic wraps, and stiff-soled shoes prevent the digit from extending past its normal range of motion again.
- Physical therapy rebuilds your lost strength. Over-stretching your big toe weakens and destabilizes it. To successfully return to sports, you need to build up your strength again. Exercises to work those muscles help with this.
Although taking time out of training is disappointing, investing in a full recovery will be better for your game in the long run. It’s certainly better than returning with a weakened foot and playing poorly—or reinjuring yourself. If you’re concerned about your turf toe recovery, consult Country Foot Care. We’ll help you come back strong. Call our Mineola and Williston Park offices at (516) 741-FEET or submit a request online to reach us.
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