The function of the big toe is to provide and maintain balance while daily activities are completed. The big toe is also essential for participating in running and jumping activities. Many people can get pain in their big toe and this can happen for a variety of reasons. Arthritis is a condition that can cause pain in this toe, affecting the joints. In severe cases, arthritis can be crippling and may cause difficulties in walking. People who enjoy running may be prone to gradually developing arthritis in the toe and this may be accompanied by swelling and stiffness. Gout can also cause debilitating pain in the joints of the big toe. It can occur for genetic reasons or from eating foods that have high levels of purines, causing an elevation in uric levels. This can cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe and it is often difficult to walk. Extensor tendonitis can develop from having tight calf muscles and arthritis that affects the joints. If you have toe pain for any reason, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and treat it accordingly.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Arnold Tarpley, Jr. of Tarpley Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Tarpley 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 Uniontown, and Connellsville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.