3 Primary Causes of Big Toe Pain

We tend to take our big toes for granted, but when you have stiffness and pain in one of your big toe joints you realize just how important the big toe is for merely standing up and walking. A variety of toe deformities and diseases have similar symptoms that can affect your big toe, so be sure to see your podiatrist for the right care.

3  primary causes of big toe pain include the following:

1.    Osteoarthritis—As we age the protective cartilage that insulates the joints deteriorates causing pain and rigidity as bone rubs against bone. The big toe can be affected by a condition called hallux rigidus that is exacerbated by osteoarthritis.

2.    Gout (podagra)—This rapidly intensifying, extremely painful and debilitating condition is largely caused by excessive consumption of fatty meats, alcohol, and other foods and beverages that are high in purines that cause a build-up of uric acid in the blood. When the acid level gets too high it can crystallize out of the blood stream and into the joints, with the big toe joint being a frequent location.

3.    Bunion deformity—This is a big toe deformity that has a genetic component but the condition can be exacerbated by wearing tight fitting shoes. It causes a large bump to form on the top of the big toe and pushes into the other toes causing a variety of other problems including overlapping toes and blisters.

If you are experiencing big toe pain, see your foot doctor for the correct diagnosis and treatment. At Fit Feet for Life, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies and years of experience to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including heel pain, sports injuries, toe deformities, nail fungus, and plantar warts.  Bonnie Sanchez, DPM, Gregory Cook, DPM, and Huy L. Nguyen, DPM provide high quality foot and ankle care in Florida to patients in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area at our five offices conveniently located in Sun City Center, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and our two Tampa locations. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.