Turf toe is a joint injury to the big toe that can cause pain and swelling. It usually takes two to three weeks to heal.
Typical costs:
For patients covered by health insurance, the typical out-of-pocket cost for turf toe treatment consists of a copay or coinsurance of 10%-50%. Turf toe treatment typically is covered by health insurance.
For patients not covered by health insurance, turf toe treatment typically costs less than $500, but can reach $1,000 or more for imaging to diagnose the problem and possibly a cast or boot and crutches.
For example, an X-ray can cost $100-$1,000 or more, but the average cost of a foot X-ray[1] is $170, according to NewChoiceHealth.com. An MRI typically costs about $1,000-$5,000, and the average cost for an MRI of the foot[2] is about $1,500, and the average cost for a CT scan of the foot[3] is $1,100, according to NewChoiceHealth.com.
At BetterBraces.com, a walking boot or air cast [4] costs $20-$200. At BraceShop.com, a walking boot costs $85-$190. Or, application of a foot and leg cast costs about $250, not including doctor fee. Crutches typically cost about $15-$100.
An X-ray -- or, in some cases a CT scan or MRI -- might be necessary to diagnose turf toe.
In some cases, the doctor will tape the toe or prescribe a cast or hard walking boot to wear while the injury heals. It might be necessary to use crutches during this time.
A doctor also might prescribe an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
In some cases, after the injury has healed, physical therapy($50-$350 per session) might be required to treat stiffness and regain strength in the big toe.
Discounts:
Drugstores and websites that sell air casts and walking boots sometimes offer discounts. For example, BraceShop.com has a savings club[6] that offers a 5% discount for signing up.
Shopping for turf toe treatment:
A sports medicine doctor or a podiatrist would treat turf toe. The American Podiatric Medical Association offers a podiatrist locator[7] . It is important to make sure the podiatrist is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine or the American Board of Podiatric Surgery[8] , depending on their area of specialty.
Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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