Experiencing Big Toe Joint Pain? Get Answers To The Questions You May Have

If you are experiencing big toe joint pain, you may be uncomfortable when you walk, run or trying to perform any other physical activity. Fortunately, the pain does tend to subside when you stay off of your feet. If you are experiencing this type of pain, you may have many questions, such as what is causing the pain and when you should see a doctor about it. Here are a few of the frequently asked questions you may have about big toe joint pain and the answers. 

What Causes Big Toe Joint Pain? 

There are many different reasons you may be experiencing big toe joint pain. You may have worn shoes that were too tight or improperly fitted. You may have banged or stubbed your toe. You may have a bunion or corn on your toe. You may be suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in your big toe. You may have conditions such as gout or sesamoiditis or you may have turf toe, typically caused by a sports injury. 

How Can You Treat Big Toe Joint Pain at Home? 

If you are experiencing big toe joint pain, there are a number of ways that you can help to relieve the pain at home. One of the best options is to stay off the toe as much as possible, keep the foot elevated and keep the foot out of a shoe. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help to minimize pain and swelling. Icing the toe and surrounding foot area can help to numb the pain and also relieve swelling. Lastly, doing toe exercises to stretch out the joint can help to strengthen the toe, reducing pain and preventing further injury in the future. 

When Should You See a Doctor for Big Toe Joint Pain? 

Big toe joint pain can be caused by a number of conditions. If the pain persists for a week or longer, or increases despite at home treatments, it is time to schedule an appointment with your doctor or a podiatrist. They can help to determine what is causing your pain and then properly treat it, helping to reduce or stop the pain you feel in your big toe. 

Big toe joint pain is a common condition with many different causes. Fortunately, in many cases, it clears up on its own with at home treatments. But if you are experiencing pain and have tried at home treatments with minimal to no results, you will want a doctor to diagnose and treat your condition.