An injury can cause toe pain, making it difficult to complete daily activities. Toe pain may also occur due to an abnormal foot structure or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Existing medical conditions like hammertoe, bunions, or gout can also play a role. The big toe is affected by gout, and the pinky toe can hurt if a corn develops. Some people endure a broken toe, and buddy taping may be used as an effective healing method. The foot condition known as athlete’s foot can cause the toes and bottom of the foot to itch, which can be uncomfortable. Many diabetic patients have nerve pain, which can develop in the feet. This may lead to getting a foot ulcer, and pain relief is generally sought. An ingrown toenail is defined as a nail that grows into the skin instead of over it, and pus may ooze from it if it becomes infected. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment methods.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Charles Passet, DPM of Forest Hills. 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 our office located in Forest Hills, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
