Turf toe is caused by hyperextension or jamming of the big toe joint, specifically the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. This occurs when the big toe bends upward beyond its normal range, often while the heel is raised off the ground, such as during running, jumping, or pushing off forcefully. The injury typically sprains or tears the ligaments and soft tissues around this joint. Turf toe often happens when the toe is stuck flat on a hard surface and forced to bend back excessively, commonly in athletes playing on artificial turf or wearing flexible footwear that lacks proper support.
