Sand toe is a hyperflexion injury of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, typically the big toe, that occurs when the joint is forced into exaggerated plantarflexion (bending downward). It's often seen in athletes, particularly beach volleyball players (hence the name), but also occurs in football players and dancers.
In simpler terms, sand toe is a sprain of the ligaments surrounding the big toe joint caused by excessive downward bending of the toe.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
The Injury: Sand toe involves damage to the ligaments surrounding the MTP joint of the big toe. These ligaments provide stability to the joint.
-
Mechanism of Injury: It typically happens when the toe is forcibly bent downwards beyond its normal range of motion. This can occur when landing awkwardly, pushing off forcefully, or getting the toe caught during activity. The sand provides an unstable surface, making beach volleyball players prone to this injury.
-
Common Causes:
- Beach volleyball
- Football
- Dancing
- Other sports involving quick stops and changes in direction.
-
Symptoms:
- Pain in the big toe joint
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Difficulty walking or pushing off with the affected foot.
- Tenderness to the touch around the joint.
-
Treatment: Treatment typically involves:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation (RICE)
- Pain medication
- Immobilization (e.g., taping or bracing)
- Physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength.
- In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Sand toe is a sprain of the big toe joint that commonly occurs in athletes where the toe is forced into extreme plantarflexion.
