Toe pain may be caused by arthritis. This condition targets the joints in the body, and the toes are no exception. Toe arthritis generally affects the big toe, and can happen as a result of having endured a previous injury. These can include a broken toe, sprained toe, or gout, which is a different form of arthritis. Toe pain from arthritis may also happen from being overweight, or if family members have had arthritis. Patients describe the pain from toe arthritis as ranging from an achy feeling to a stabbing sensation when movement of the toe is attempted. The symptoms that can accompany toe arthritis can consist of swelling, a change in appearance, or there may be clicking and popping noises. Treatment may depend on the severity of the pain and how often it occurs. If you have toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is, and treat it accordingly.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Gregory T. Loo, DPM of Elite Podiatry. Our doctor 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 Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.