Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
Turf toe is a sprain of the plantar capsule-ligament complex surrounding the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint the joint at the base of the big toe caused by forced hyperextension of the toe beyond its normal range of motion. Despite its colloquial name, turf toe is not limited to athletes playing on artificial surfaces it occurs in any sport or activity involving explosive push-off, sudden deceleration, or direct axial loading of the forefoot, including soccer, basketball, dance, and distance running on NYC’s hard pavement. Injuries are graded I through III based on the extent of capsule-ligament damage: Grade I involves stretching without tearing, Grade II involves partial capsular tear with bruising and moderate swelling, and Grade III involves complete plantar plate disruption with joint instability and possible sesamoid fracture. At Healthy Feet Podiatry, our NYC turf toe specialists use clinical stress testing, diagnostic ultrasound, and MRI referral when indicated to grade every injury accurately from the first visit because Grade III turf toe managed as Grade I produces chronic first MTP instability that ends athletic careers prematurely.
At Healthy Feet Podiatry, turf toe treatment follows a strict grade-specific protocol designed to restore full plantar plate integrity and functional joint stability not just pain-free walking. Grade I injuries are managed with activity modification, taping, and a stiff-soled insole to limit MTP hyperextension during return to sport. Grade II injuries require temporary immobilization in a walking boot for two to four weeks, progressive rehabilitation targeting joint range of motion and intrinsic foot muscle strength, and functional taping for return to sport. Grade III complete plantar plate ruptures with demonstrable joint instability are evaluated for surgical repair particularly in athletes where reliable first MTP stability is non-negotiable for performance and managed either through structured non-surgical rehabilitation with custom carbon fiber orthotics or referral for plantar plate reconstruction, based on instability severity and patient goals.
Healthy Feet Podiatry serves turf toe patients across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island from competitive athletes playing at NYC’s sports facilities and courts to dancers, martial artists, and active professionals whose first MTP joint is fundamental to their performance and daily function. Our NYC turf toe specialists have treated this injury across all grades and all sports, bringing the diagnostic precision and treatment individualization that a joint as critical as the first MTP demands. We accept most major insurance plans and offer same-week urgent appointments for acute turf toe injuries. If you’ve hyperextended your big toe and it’s swollen, painful, and limiting your push-off, Healthy Feet Podiatry in NYC is your most direct path to an accurate diagnosis and a recovery plan built around your life.
TESTIMONIAL
Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
Everyone was super friendly. Doctor Rick’s explained everything thoroughly.
Dr Bell was incredibly thorough and personable. Gave me great information and useful information for my next steps. A great experience!
“Fast, professional, and very clean office. I was checked in and seen within 10 minutes of my scheduled time. Dr. Ricks was straight to the point but thorough. The front desk staff was also incredibly helpful.
All of the staff are super welcoming and professional! Bianca took excellent care in getting my X-rays. Dr. Ricks was thorough in explaining my diagnosis and next steps. Highly recommended!!
Well before I came in today to see Dr. Ricks my foot in pain was 9/10 and now I feel good 🙏🏿🤩 thanks
Behind every great care experience is a team that truly listens. Our doctors are committed to understanding your needs, delivering personalized treatment, and supporting you every step of your health journey.
Dr. Farah Alani is a New York City foot and ankle surgeon at To Healthy Feet Podiatry, a boutique podiatry practice located in the heart…
Dr. Alison Bell was born in Manhattan and is a Public Health graduate of Charles R. Drew University. She obtained her medical degree from Kent…
Dr. Roxann Clarke is a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Master of Science…
Dr. Ricks is a board-certified fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon committed to delivering top-tier foot and ankle care. From New Jersey, she a Bachelor’s in…
As the Chief Operating Officer of To Healthy Feet Podiatry, Tiffany provides leadership to ensure all administrative are producing optimal results. Dr….
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