This injury is caused by a hypertension or (dorsiflexory) force across the great toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint). There can be other force vectors involved (varus and valgus stress)

This injury is variable and is graded on the extent.

• Grade I: Sprain of the plantar plate.

• Grade II: Partial tear of the plantar plate.

• Grade III: Complete tear of the plantar plate

Symptoms include pain and swelling of the great toe joint ( first metatarsophalangeal joint). Difficulty walking and being able to “toe off”, There have also been reports of subacute to chronic development of turf toe.

Conservative Treatment

• “RICE” Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation

• Reduction of activity levels.

• Oral medications

• Shoe gear changes

• Carbon fiber plated Orthotic/morton’s extension

• Immobilization, cast, splint, cam boot

• Physical therapy

If the patient fails conservative management, surgical repair is an option.

• Anatomic primary repair

• Secondary repair with augmentation

• If fracture of a sesamoid, ORIF or excision of fracture fragment may be warranted.

• Abductor hallucis tendon transfer