Pain in the big toe is a complaint often addressed by podiatrists. There are several common causes of pain in the big toe, but it isn’t always easy to determine the correct diagnosis without the help of your foot care professional.

A problem with the big toe can be caused by disease, injury, or a structural abnormality. Some of the most common conditions include the following:

  • Hallux Limitus and Hallux Rigidus—Hallux is the Latin word for big toe, and the names of these conditions refer to the limited movement of the toe joint in the first instance, and the complete rigidity of the big toe joint in the later instance. In many cases, wearing proper shoes with appropriate orthotic inserts and taking pain relievers will provide enough relief.
  • Gout—This is an inflammation of the big toe that is caused by uric acid crystals forming in the joint. The crystals are caused when too much uric acid builds up in the blood, causing it to crystallize out into the extremities. Avoiding alcohol and limiting foods that contain purines like seafood and fatty meats can help minimize gout attacks. Maintaining a healthy weight and consuming cherry juice and organic apple cider vinegar can reduce uric acid in the blood.
  • Turf toe—This is a sprain injury of the big toe that is more likely to occur on artificial field surfaces, but can happen on any surface. The ligaments around the big toe become inflamed or jammed from the forces experienced while pushing off from your feet.

If you are experiencing big toe pain, your foot doctor can help. At Podiatry Center of New Jersey, Dr. Russell Samofal treats a variety of conditions such as sports injuries, diabetic foot problems, pediatric foot conditions, toe deformities, arthritis, nail fungus, arch problems and heel pain. Equipped with advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Podiatry Center of New Jersey provides individualized high quality care for patients all across Morris, Passaic, Bergen and Essex counties. For all your foot and ankle problems, contact our Wayne office at (973) 925-4111 for an appointment.