Halluxthotics™ GXT Fiberglass Turf Toe Supports

Question:

I am very interested in the turf toe inserts, however, I would like to see if it can be modified to wear with high heels. I have turf toe in both of my large toes and I would like to know if it can be modified to be like a splint for the large toe or a sleeve of sorts - to keep the large toe from moving when wearing high heels. As it is now, the only type of heels that I can wear are the ones with a platform however; I have several shoes that does not have a platform and I would like to wear them as well.

Answer:

You have an interesting idea but not a practical solution for treating turf toe in heels. The primary treatment for turf toe is limitation of range of motion while a high heel puts the great toe in hyperextension, creating loads that are eccentric and increased within the great toe joint. Consequently, easing the symptoms and pain associated with turf toe won't work while wearing high heels.

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Question:

Is this flexible from the heel up to the ball of the foot?

Answer:

The Turf Toe Plates are not flexible at all. Since they are made of carbon graphite, they really don't bend or flex. But because the have a built-in arch, it does make the gait process easier.

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Question:

The turf toe plate looks stiff and hard.  Do I need to cover this insert with something soft?

Answer:

Although semi-flexible, the Turf Toe Plate Molded is rather firm.  We recommend covering it with a Pedag Soft Shoe Insole for maximal comfort.

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Question:

Do I need to remove this plate before I wash my shoes?

Answer:

You don't need to, it is washable.  However we recommend that you do.  Mold might occur from moisture buildup if the shoes do not dry quickly.  If you dry your shoes in a dryer the plate could soften from the heat and reshape itself.  So be safe and take it out of your shoe/shoes before washing.

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Question:

How do I reshape this plate?

Answer:

See our Alterations tab. Use a heat gun to warm the plate to 243-266 degrees Fahrenheit.  Then place the warmed plate over an arch support and use your hands to remold the plate.  Make sure you wear oven mitts to handle and mold the heated plate.  It is hot enough to burn your skin, so please be careful!  If you do not have an arch support you can use your hands to remold the plate.  If you make a mistake or need more reshaping, the plate can be reheated over and over until you get it right!

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Question:

I see you sell both flat or molded turf toe plates.  I have arthritis of the big toe, and want support.  Which would be better?

Answer:

Thanks for your interest in our Turf Toe Plates! Either one would work for you, but we typically suggest starting with the molded plate. It is more comfortable and thus easier to get used to. With its inherent arch, it fits right into your shoe so you don't have to struggle with placement, as you do with the flat one. The Flat Plate is short (one size fits all), so placement can be tricky. Also, it is harder to get used to walking with a flat rigid plate in your shoe than a contoured one. However, the Flat Plate would fit into more shoes, as it is slimmer in design.

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 Question:

I am missing my big toe on my right foot. Back when I lost the toe (20 yrs ago)I had fancy inserts that cost big $. So to say the least that did not last long and I have just been buying stiff soled boots for the last 15 yrs. As I am getting older I am finding this is not cutting it. My foot was crushed by a fork truck so the four little toes were damaged (but sort of work) and the whole foot has artho in it. What product would you recommend? I thought 881 or 882. Can not decide if molded turf toe would be the best or the full shoe black carbon. BTW I am 6'3" and weight 270 and like to hike and hunt. My insoles live a ruff life.

Answer:

Thanks for your question about how best to address your missing big toe. The primary function of a carbon plate is to maintain the length of the lever arm that the foot previously had with the great toe in place.  The use of a Spring Plate would be about perfect for your needs, especially since your lesser toes have arthritis in them. The spring plate will maintain the lever length yet it has a bit of flexibility that helps improve its functionality for everyday wear and also for hunting and hiking.  The Turf Toe Plate would certainly help fill the void where your big toe was, but it wouldn't help with your over-all arthritis. Another option is to take a look at our Hallux Trainer Sport or Dress, as they have the full carbon graphite lower, with a great upper insole. So much of this is not objective science but is actually best accomplished with trial and error.

Question:

Hello I am interested in the "Turf Toe Plates - Molded Glass fiber".   I'm confused as to how the sizing works.  Sizes are listed as "Euro".  My shoe size is US 10 1/2.   Can you advise me on which size I need?  Thanks!

Answer:

Thanks for your interest in our molded turf Toe Plate. Sizing is a bit confusing, but if you follow the suggestions below, I think you'll be able to make a choice:

We tell all of our customers that your shoe size is not what you need to use to determine what size carbon fiber plate you need. It is much more effective to measure an insole in one of your shoes and compare that to the lengths the plates come in. So, take out an insole that comes with a shoe you wear often, and measure it from the tip of the toe to the back of the heel.  

For example, if your insole measures 11 inches, you would want to get a Turf toe plate that is slightly shorter (so that it fits in your shoe):

            Turf Toe Plates, Molded, Size 43/44 (10 ¼").

These aren't meant to be full-length, but rather to go just past the fat-pad on your big toe). Also, to be sure, take a piece of paper and mark 10 ¼", and 10 ¾" (for the size45/46). Step on the paper to see where the line hits you under your big toe. If the 10 ¼" hits past the fat-pad of your big toe, and the 10/34" goes beyond your big toe, then you know to choose the 43/44 at 10 ½".

Question:

I have orthotic inserts perscribed by my podiatrist (for hallix rigidus), so I'm looking for a foot plate that will work with them. Do you have plates that will fit under my orthotics? I guess flat or nearly flat ones will be best for me.

Answer:

These Turf Toe Plates can work with orthotics, and are usually worn underneath them. However, they aren't flat- there is an arch and a curve up by the toes, to create a rocker movement to help with toe-off. Please take a look at our Turf Toe Plate - Carbon Graphite - Flat or our Carbon Graphite Shoe Plate- Flat Plates, as they are both completely flat and would fit easily underneath your custom orthotics.

Question:

Do these inserts take up a lot of space - I have one that was custom fitted for me - they fit nicely into sneakers but not any other shoe - also they are 3 years old -the arch is stilll good but I do not think it limits ROM of the forefoot as well as it did in the beginining- these seem to be made of a stronger material that what I have.

Answer:

These Turf Toe Plates don't take up too much space - they are rigid, so can't be altered much, but they are not quite full length, so can fit in many shoes. I doubt they would fit in slim dress shoes, but they would fit in tennis shoes and other full-shaped shoes easily. The first toe extension is meant to limit the ROM of the big toe, so it should suit your needs well.

Question:

I have been told by my doctor that I have turf toe, and he said I need to get turf toe plates. However he said to be sure to get them without arch supports, and your turf toe plates say they have arch supports. Do you have Turf Toe plates without arch supportd?

Answer:

If you need something for Turf Toe that does not have any arch in it at all, you can either alter these plates with heat (instructions are included) to flatten the arch, or purchase our Turf Toe Plates-Carbon Graphite-Flat or Flat Glass Fiber Shoe Plates.

Question:

I'm trying to do everything I can to relieve pain from Hallux Rigidus (sadly, the pain is still here 5 months post-cheilectomy). I've seen recommendations to use dancer's pads and I've seen recommendations to use turf toe plates. Can they be used together? Or should I start with one (Dancer's Pads) and then move to the next if no relief?

Answer:

Most folks find relief using either a Dancer's Pad or a Turf Toe Plate, but don't need to use both together. It always makes sense to start simple, so try the Dancer's Pads first and then move up to the Turf Toe Plate. Even if the Dancer's Pads are effective, you may want to use the Turf Toe Plate just to have something firmer, more permanent, and movable from shoe to shoe.

Question:

I have been diagnosed with metatarsalgia/sesamoiditis where there's pain under the big toe and sesamoids. My Dr. said to get turf toe carbon fiber inserts, but I'm not sure what inserts would be best for me (Turf Toe plates, spring plates, or the flat graphite plates).

Answer:

If your pain is only under the big toe, then these Turf Toe Plates or the Flat Turf Toe Plates would be perfect, as they allow your lesser 4 toes to move freely. If you are experiencing pain beyond the big toe, then the Carbon Fiber Contour Plates or Spring Plates would be a better option because they limit the range of motion for all of your toes and metatarsal joints.

Question:

Do you recommend for plantar plate injury?

Answer:

The classic definition of turf toe is a traumatic disruption of the soft tissue surrounding the great toe. And that would include the plantar plate, sesamoid apparatus and associated ligaments. The term plantar plate is more associated with the lesser metatarsal phalangeal joints, particularly the 2nd mpj. If your intent is to use the turf toe plate for a great toe injury, that’d be a good choice. If you intend to use it for a lesser toe injury, I’d suggest that you look into our Carbon Fiber Contour Plates or Carbon Graphite Spring Plate.

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM
Medical Director
Myfootshop.com

Question:

I was told to get shoes or boots with a support shank for this condition, which I did. Are these plates meant to be used strictly with a shank, or can they substitute for the shank in conventional shoes? I only ask because footwear with shanks is more expensive and harder to find.

Answer:

Turf Toe Plates actually give you that rigid shank you are looking for, so there is no need to buy shoes that also have a rigid shank. Use the Turf Toe Plates in all conventional shoes to create that firmness you need.

Question:

I have hallux rigidus and sesmoiditis in my right foot. will the turf toe plates exacerbate the sesmoiditis, since they are so rigid? I would appreciate your recommendations.

Answer:

Our Turf Toe Plates are designed to alleviate the pain and stiffness that comes with hallux rigidus and sesemoiditis. Their stiffness actually helps reduce your symptoms because they limit the range of motion your big toe joint must go through during gait.

Question:

I was recently Dx with Freiberg's infarction of my R foot, 2nd metatarsal head. Have a lot of pain with toe-off while jogging and walking. Would this "Turf toe" plate also help a 2nd metatarsal lesion?

Answer:

Please read through our article on Freiberg's Infraction to get a thorough understanding of your condition. The article does list suggested products both at the top and bottom of the article, but you might want to take a closer look at our Carbon Fiber Contour Plates, Carbon Fiber Spring Plate and our Metatarsal Pads-Felt as great products to start with. The Turf Toe Plate is designed for limiting movement of the big toe joint, so won't really help with your 2nd met head.

Question:

I run 45 to 60 miles per week and have been diagnosed with Hallux Limitus. I would like to limit the movement of my big toe on my right foot with a product like yours and have the following questions about your products: (1) Is the Toe Turf Plate the correct product for me? (2) Will correctly sized plates fit into my running shoes? (3) Can I easily switch the plates between multiple pairs of running shoes (I alternate each day between 2-3 pairs of shoes)? (4) Will I notice the arch on the plate (I am concerned that the arch on the plate might be uncomfortable, or affect the arch of my feet or the way that my shoes are designed)? (5) If I do not like the plates and have not altered them can I return them? (6) are there brick and mortar stores that carry the product so I can feel them and try them in my shoes?

Answer:

Keep up the good work! And, I think we can help you do that.

(1) The Turf Toe Plates are a good choice for your hallux limitus, as they limit the amount of movement your big toe joint goes through during gait. With the carbon fiber extension only under the big toe, it allows your other toes to move freely.
(2) To get the proper size plate, we always urge you to actually measure your foot and an insole from one of your running shoes, and then choose the Turf Toe Plates that are just slightly shorter than your insert. So, if your insert is 10.5 inches long, then the Euro 43/44 (10.25") would be the best choice.
(3)The Turf Toe Plates are easily moved from shoe to shoe, though we have many customers who buy several pair once they are used to them, so that they don't have to make the switch all the time.
(4) These do have a slight arch, but it can be altered with heat, if you so choose. We send alteration instructions along with the plates to explain how you can heat them in the oven and then press down on the arch (with oven mitts). However, our Flat Turf Toe Plates would be much better, since alterations wouldn't be needed.
(5) You certainly can return them, so long as they aren't altered or scuffed up too badly.

(6) I am not aware of any brick and mortar stores that carry Turf Toe Plates - sorry! But, feel free to order them from us and then return them if necessary.

Thalia Oster, COE Chief of Everthing Myfootshop.com

Question:

Not sure at this point if I have a case of hallux limitus, or a stress fracture around the first metatarsal head. Appointment with orthopedist a few weeks away. Do you think the turf toe plates would help with walking until my appointment (I am a runner, so they may come in handy later)? Finally, I have wide feet (4e). If the turf toe plates are appropriate, will they move around under my inserts or should I try and tape/glue them into the correct position? Thanks for the help.

Answer:

The Turf Toe Plates limit the range of motion your big toe joint goes through during gait, so they would help in both scenarios: whether you have hallux limitus or a stress fracture. Their width is average, so we do suggest you place them undderneath the insole of your shoe, which also helps keep them in place. If they feel okay, double-sided tape works well in keeping them in place.

Question:

Where is your sizing chart?

Answer:

We don't have a sizing chart per se, but the size details are listed in the drop-down box for all sizes, noting the European size, US size, and length in inches.

Question:

Can I run in these?

Answer:

You sure can!

Question:

I have plantar fasciitis, for which I wear heel inserts- they work well. Now I have rigidus big toe in my left foot as well. Will the turf toe insert be compatible with the heel inserts?

Answer:

They should be compatible-the only issue is whether there is enough space in your shoes for both.

Question:

I see turf toe plates for men's sizes 9 and 10-11. I'm 9.5, which should I get?

Answer:

The key factor in choosing a size is the actual length of the Turf Toe Plate. I would recommend that you mark a piece of paper with the length of the Men's 8-9 (9 5/8" long) and the Men's 10-11 (10 1/4" long) and see where they hit you under your big toe. You want the extension piece that goes under your big toe to go at least past the fat pad of your big toe.

Question:

I'm a 11.5 I should go with the 11's? Also, is any customization needed on this product to contour my foot?

Answer:

It is always advisable to buy the smaller size, but you might want to do some measuring first. We suggest that you take an insole out of a shoe you wear all of the time and measure it from tip to heel, and then compare that measurement with the sizing details we have for the turf toe plates. The Turf Toe Plates come already molded with an arch, but you can heat mold them to accomodate more specific fitting needs. We send these modification instructions along with your product.

Question:

I have narrow feet :>( Does that mean I cannot use these? I usually wear a 7.5 AA and have, in the past, jammed my feet into 7s to keep them on. Now I have hallux rigidus...I use your turf toe straps to get some relief and was given a stiff orthotic by the doc but it is too wide and misses my toe. Am I doomed?

Answer:

These do come only in a medium width, but with proper equipment, you could trim the edges with a grinder. Because the carbon graphite particles will be airborne during grinding, you would need to wear a mask and have good ventilation.

Question:

Recently obtained a new Turf Toe Plate - sizing needed to be one size larger than expected - limits range well but it seems that the arch is slightly further back on foot than needed - any guidance / tips on reshaping to slightly move the arch a bit?

Answer:

Here are the alteration instructions:

• Heating temperature of 248F to 266F (not over 320F).
• Easily adjusted with a heat gun.

Use oven mitts to hold and mold the inserts. I think you could heat them, and then gently push the arch forward a bit with your hands.

• Can be reheated & reshaped as often as desired
• No special band saw blades needed
• No fraying of the edges – smooth finish.

Please note - once it is modified, the turf toe plate can't be returned.

Question:

Can I use them to walk in the pool in chlorinated water? What about ocean water?

Answer:

I'm really not sure what the water would do to the Turf Toe Plates, as the manufacturer does not have any information regarding their durability in water. Since they are made of carbon graphite, I imagine they would withstand exposure to water, but I am sure the finish would not hold up, especially since salt and chlorine are a bit corrosivel. Also, I don't think the manufacturer would replace them if they broke, since this use would not be considered 'normal'.

Question:

I have Morton's Toe and I have been feverishly searching for an orthotic that can help me. Basically my second metatarsal is longer than my first Metatarsal (big toe). When I run, after 3 miles, I get a hot burning pain in my second metatarsal that shoots up my second toe. I have read about this issue and it is suggested that I need to raise up my first metatarsal. The Turf Toe Plate insert looks like it could possible work. I tried a temporary insert that I taped to my insole and it worked until the material pancaked out during my run. Have you ever heard of this issue? Do you think these inserts could help? If not can you recommend something else? I am getting desperate and my next stop is the podiatrist.

Answer:

You're on the right track but looking at the wrong product.

What you're describing is a long 2nd metatarsal and a condition called capsulitis that results from increased loading to the second metatarsal head.  The fix for sub 2 capsulitis is going to be much easier (and cheaper) than a turf toe plate.  Take a peek at either our Arch Binder with Metatarsal Pad or any of our Metatarsal Pads.  But first, be sure to read the article on capsulitis to a) better understand the condition and b) find the most appropriate product used to treat capsulitis. 

My recommendation would be to pick up an arch binder with met pad to wear around the house while you're barefoot but also purchase some felt met pads to place in your shoes.  The advantage of placing them in the shoes is that once placed, you never have to worry about it.  You can get up and go without remembering to have to place a pad on the foot.  Be sure to watch the video on the felt metatarsal product page to understand proper placement of the met pads in the shoe.

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM
Medical Director
Myfootshop.com

Question:

Is this flexible from the heel up to the ball of the foot?

Answer:

The Turf Toe Plates are not flexible at all. Since they are made of carbon graphite, they really don't bend or flex. But because the have a built-in arch, it does make the gait process easier.

Question:

The turf toe plate looks stiff and hard.  Do I need to cover this insert with something soft?

Answer:

Although semi-flexible, the Turf Toe Plate Molded is rather firm.  We recommend covering it with a Pedag Soft Shoe Insole for maximal comfort.

More questions?  You can find additional answers in our customer support portal or simply click chat at the top of the page.