Dr. Derrick Wendler Explains the Injury That Sidelined Joe Burrow and Countless Others
Recently, NFL quarterback Joe Burrow sustained a significant injury to his big toe that required surgery and may have ended his 2025 season. This type of injury is commonly referred to as "turf toe," a condition frequently seen in athletes, especially football players. Dr. Derrick Wendler, a fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialist at Resurgens Orthopaedics, explains what turf toe is, how it happens and why proper treatment is essential for recovery.
What Exactly is Turf Toe?
Turf toe is an injury to the plantar (underside) aspect of the big toe, specifically at the joint where the toe meets the foot. The term was first introduced in 1976 when NFL physicians noticed an increase in toe injuries as artificial turf became more widely used.
What Causes It?
Turf toe occurs when the big toe is forcefully bent upward, often during high-impact sports activities. This hyperextension can damage the ligaments, tendons and joint capsule that support the toe.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of turf toe include:
- Pain and tenderness at the base of the big toe
- Swelling and bruising
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
- Reduced range of motion
Treatment Options
Conservative Management
Most turf toe injuries can be treated without surgery:
- Immobilization with a walking boot or stiff-soled shoe
- Rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility
Surgical Intervention
In more severe cases, such as Joe Burrow's, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged structures and restore stability to the toe. This procedure involves:
- Reconstructing torn ligaments and tendons
- Realigning the joint to support proper function
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from turf toe depends on the severity of the injury:
- Mild cases: two to six weeks
- Severe cases (post-surgery): up to three months
Rehabilitation includes:
- Gradual return to weight-bearing
- Strengthening exercises
- Gait training to restore normal walking patterns
Why the Big Toe Matters (For Everyone, Not Just Athletes)
While turf toe is commonly associated with athletes, the big toe is essential for everyone's daily function. Your big toe bears approximately 40% of your body weight during walking and provides the final push-off point with each step. Without proper big toe function, simple activities like walking to your car, climbing stairs or standing for extended periods can become painful and difficult.
The big toe also plays a critical role in balance and stability. Whether you're an NFL quarterback or someone who enjoys gardening, hiking or playing with your kids, a properly functioning big toe is essential. That's why proper healing is so important. Without proper treatment, turf toe can lead to long-term complications such as instability, altered gait mechanics or even arthritis in the joint. These issues don't just affect your athletic performance but can impact your quality of life and ability to perform everyday tasks.
Don't Let a Toe Injury Keep You on the Sidelines
If you're experiencing symptoms of turf toe or have sustained a toe injury, don't wait for it to worsen. Dr. Derrick E. Wendler and the foot and ankle specialists at Resurgens Orthopaedics can provide a comprehensive evaluation and create a personalized treatment plan to get you back to the activities you love. Schedule your consultation today at resurgens.com/schedule.