Toe pain can result from a number of conditions, ranging from minor injuries to more complex joint issues. Common causes include ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, or blisters from wearing ill-fitting shoes. Joint problems such as arthritis may lead to stiffness, swelling, or aching in one or more toes. Nerve issues like pinched nerves or neuromas can also trigger sharp or burning sensations. Repetitive pressure, especially during sports or long walks, may irritate soft tissue or lead to bruising beneath the nail. In some cases, deformities like bunions or hammertoes develop over time and begin to cause discomfort. The source of pain is not always obvious without a proper examination. If you are dealing with toe pain that does not improve, limits your movement, or keeps returning, it is suggested that you promptly see a podiatrist to identify the cause and explore effective treatment options.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Michael T. Hames of Florence Foot 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 Florence, Alabama . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
