All our toes are vital for us to properly function, but it’s no secret that there’s one that stands out: the big toe. If you are experiencing stiffness, swelling, bruising, or pain from walking or standing, then you might be suffering from something more than just overworked feet.

Causes of Big Toe Joint Pain

Pain in the big toe can be due to the development of different conditions that include:

• Bunions
• Arthritis

Bunions

Bunions, also known as Hallux Valgus Deformity, is a condition in which the big toe moves towards the second toe. This deformity will also create a bump on the foot’s side that can sometimes become swollen and red from irritation.

Bunions can be due to genetic bone structure, standing for long periods, or wearing shoes that don’t fit correctly.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term that refers to a disease that diminishes the cartilage meant to provide a cushion between the bones and the joints. Many types of Arthritis can affect the big toe.

One type of Arthritis that targets the MTP joint of the big toe is Hallux Rigdus. This is a degenerative type of Arthritis in which the big toe becomes stiff. The stiffness can reach the point where there is no movement, making the big toe a frozen joint.

Another type of Arthritis that can affect the big toe is Gout, also known as Podagra. Gout is considered Metabolic Arthritis because it’s characterized by high Uric Acid levels in the blood known as Hyperuricemia. 

The elevated levels of Uric Acid can be a result of:

• Diet. Uric Acid is produced by the body to break down the purines found in the food we eat. 
• Genetic factors. Specific genes have been related to the development of gout.
• Other conditions. Gout can occur when people suffer from conditions like Abdominal Obesity and Hypertension.

The Uric Acid crystallizes in the blood at high levels and will then build up in the joints. The body will react to this abnormality resulting in attacks of pain, redness, and heat.

Treatments for Big Toe Joint Pain

Depending on the cause of your big toe joint pain, you can treat or improve it through lifestyle changes and seeking professional help.

If your shoes aren’t the right fit, it can cause pain in your feet in the case of Bunions. Shoes should have a stiff sole that bends easily at the big toe joint. If this condition has started to develop, you can use inserts to support or use toe splints to realign the toes.

As the cartilage wears and tears, the pain can be due to inflammation. A proper diet includes eating vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and lots of water. Some natural foods that act as anti-inflammatories include ginger, fish oil, and curcumin.

A podiatrist can prescribe over-the-counter medication to treat inflammation or, in severe cases, Corticosteroid injections. They can also recommend physical therapy to improve the flexibility of the joint in the big toe.

Find The Proper Treatment

With such an array of causes for the pain in your big toe joint, it’s crucial to get the right diagnoses. Podiatrists at Canyon Oaks Foot and Ankle are ready to help you get back on your feet pain-free.

Contact us at any of our locations in Fresno, Visalia, or Porterville today!