Pain in the big toe joint can have many causes. It often happens when the bones, tendons, or soft tissues around the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint become strained or inflamed. Conditions like gout, arthritis, bunions, or sesamoiditis can make the MTP joint stiff, swollen, and painful when walking. Repeated stress from sports, tight shoes, or wearing high heels can also irritate this joint, causing turf toe, tendonitis, or bursitis. A fracture or sprain can result from a direct injury, like stubbing the toe or dropping something heavy on it. If left untreated, pain in the big toe joint can limit movement or cause deformity. A podiatrist can examine the foot, order X-rays, and determine the cause of pain to prevent further joint damage. Treatment can relieve pressure on the toe, improve alignment, or involve surgery if needed. If you have pain in the joint of your big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Causes Toe Pain?
Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.
Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Trauma
- Sports injury
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Arthritis
- Gout
- Corns and calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Blisters
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Dislocations
When to See a Podiatrist
- Severe pain
- Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
- Signs of infection
- Continued swelling
- Pain that prevents walking
Diagnosis
In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
If you have any questions please contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
