Toe injury sidelines Ryan against Eagles

Matt Ryan, quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, injured his right great toe early in the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week. It has been reported by several media outlets that he will miss the upcoming game against the Philadelphia Eagles as a result of this injury.

Ryan is reportedly suffering from turf toe. This is a condition that causes pain at the base of the big toe near the ball of the foot. The injury can occur by jamming the big toe or when cleats stick in artificial turf while coming to a sudden stop. The toe is hyperextended and damages the ligaments and capsule of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP). Damage can range from a stretch injury or minor tear to a complete tear of the capsule and ligaments with injury to bone and cartilage. Symptoms include pain at the MTP joint and base of the great toe as well as swelling and joint stiffness.

Athletes typically do not participate in sporting events while being treated for turf toe because they cannot use the toe to push-off, jump or accelerate. Turf toe is treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication and immobilization of the joint, especially when the injury is acute. Immobilization may be accomplished with a cast or walking boot. Eventually, range of motion exercises are performed to gradually increase joint motion. Taping techniques and shoe modifications can also be used to help an athlete return to play. Most patients will respond to conservative care, but surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Unfortunately, many athletes go on to experience long term complications from turf toe including arthritis, pain, development of bone spurs and joint stiffness.