Big toe joint pain can be a nagging and debilitating issue, affecting mobility and daily activities. Understanding the root causes is imperative to finding effective relief and restoring comfort to your feet. One common culprit is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. When osteoarthritis affects the big toe joint, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly during movement or weight-bearing activities. Another potential cause is gout, a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, resulting in sudden and intense pain in the big toe joint. Additionally, injuries such as sprains or fractures, as well as conditions like bunions or sesamoiditis, can contribute to big toe joint pain. Identifying the specific cause through a thorough evaluation by a podiatrist is essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you have big toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment methods.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM of Arlington Podiatry Center. 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 Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Metatarsalgia, a common foot condition, manifests as pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, specifically the metatarsal region. This discomfort can vary in intensity, from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain, often exacerbated by standing, walking, or running. The causes of metatarsalgia are diverse, encompassing both biomechanical factors and lifestyle choices. High-impact activities, improper footwear, and excessive pressure on the forefoot can strain the metatarsals, leading to irritation of the surrounding tissues and nerves. Additionally, foot deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, and Morton's neuroma can contribute to the development of metatarsalgia. Poorly fitting shoes with inadequate cushioning or support exacerbate symptoms, worsening the condition. Furthermore, age-related changes in foot structure, such as loss of fat padding and decreased elasticity of ligaments, increase susceptibility to metatarsal pain. If you are experiencing pain in this area of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat metatarsalgia.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot arthritis encompasses various types, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms. Osteoarthritis, the most common form, occurs due to wear and tear on the joints over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected areas. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, results in inflammation of the joints, including those in the foot. This can lead to intense pain, swelling, and deformities. Furthermore, post-traumatic arthritis develops following injuries to the foot, such as fractures or severe sprains, leading to progressive joint degeneration and chronic pain. Regardless of the type, foot arthritis often manifests as discomfort during weight-bearing activities, such as walking or standing, accompanied by reduced mobility and stiffness. Additionally, individuals may experience tenderness, warmth, and joint instability in the affected foot. If you have arthritis that is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Edward S. Pozarny DPM from Arlington Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Arlington, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.