Big toe joint pain often involves the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint. The MTP joint connects the big toe to the foot and is supported by ligaments, cartilage, and a joint capsule. Common causes of big toe pain include arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or gout, where inflammation or uric acid crystals damage the joint, leading to swelling, redness, and difficulty in walking. Bunions, a bony bump at the base of the big toe, may also lead to joint pain, especially when the toe is pushed out of alignment. Turf toe, caused by hyperextension injuries to the joint, damages surrounding ligaments and tissues. Conditions like septic arthritis, a bacterial infection in the joint, require immediate attention due to severe pain and swelling. A podiatrist can assess the cause of the MTP joint pain, and provide diagnostic imaging if needed. Treatment options include custom orthotics, medication, or surgery for long-term relief. If you have pain in the big toe joint, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. 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 feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.