Your knees and feet are placed under a tremendous amount of stress each time you walk, run, jump, squat, exercise or perform daily activities. The knee is one of the largest joints in the body and is especially susceptible to injury. Your toes are comprised of many small bones, tendons and ligaments that are also susceptible to injury. As a result, you may experience pain and swelling in your right knee and big right toe from time to time.
Patellar Tendinitis
Tendinitis of the knee, often referred to as patellar tendinitis, can cause pain and swelling in your right knee. Tendinitis is inflammation often cause by overuse. As your participate in physical activity, pain and swelling tends to increase. With rest, your symptoms will likely become less noticeable. Patellar tendinitis is most commonly treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation. If pain persists, your doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medications, immobilization or physical therapy.
Kneecap Dislocation
A kneecap dislocation occurs when the patella -- the triangle-shaped bone on the front of your knee -- moves or slides out of place. Kneecap dislocation often occurs as a direct blow to the knee or a sudden change of direction during sports or exercise. Kneecap dislocation can cause pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness and a noticeable deformity of your knee. It is treated with immobilization and eventual physical therapy to help improve range of motion and strength in your knee. If instability continues, surgery can be completed to help stabilize your knee.
Hallux Rigidus
One cause of pain and swelling in a big toe is hallux rigidus. This disorder occurs when the joint of your big toe becomes stiff, painful and swells. Over time, hallux rigidus may make it more difficult to bend your big toe and make walking, standing, stair climbing and many other daily activities difficult. If you have hallux rigidus, the pain and swelling may become more noticeable during physical activity and when the weather is cold and damp. As the disorder progresses, you are likely to experience pain even while resting. Hallux rigidus is diagnosed through a physical examination and X-ray. Treatment of hallux rigidus, which varies based on progression, may include anti-inflammatory medications, footwear modification, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy or surgery.
Bunions
A bunion is another condition that can lead to pain and swelling in your big toe. Bunions are also referred to as hallux valgus, which means the outward turning of the big toe. A bunion is comprised of soft tissues and bones, which can be the result of arthritis, poor-fitting shoes or genetics. If you have a bunion, you may experience pain, swelling and redness at the site of your bunion. You may also have difficulty wearing certain shoes. Bunions can be treated conservatively or with surgery. Treatment includes taping or bunion pads, footwear modification, injections, anti-inflammatory medications or surgical removal of the bunion.
