Sharp pain in the big toe can interfere with daily movement and may signal underlying conditions. Gout causes sudden, intense pain due to uric acid buildup in the joint. Sesamoiditis results from inflammation of the small bones under the toe. Turf toe is a sprain from forceful bending, often seen in athletes. Additionally, lumps such as cysts or bone growths can also cause discomfort and pressure. A podiatrist can perform a detailed evaluation, provide imaging if needed, and offer targeted treatments to reduce pain and restore function. If you are suffering from big toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to identify the cause and begin the path to healing and relief.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Paul Drucker of NYC Foot Care, PC. 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 contact our offices located in 70th Street Manhattan, 60th Street Manhattan, Jamaica, Queens, Plainview, NY and Fair Lawn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
