Running places a lot of stress on the foot. With each stride, you put a weight on the ball and big toe of your feet. The majority of your body weight is sent into the ground as you push off into your stride, which can eventually lead to damage of the joints of your big toe.
Hallux Rigidus
Hallux rigidus is one potential cause for the pain in the big toe when running. Also referred to as stiff big toe, this condition is actually a form of arthritis. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, it's typically isolated to the base of the big toe. While the exact cause of the condition isn't well understood, some medical professionals believe its development is the result of some sort of stress to the metatarsophalangeal joint, which can lead to damage of the cartilage.
Sesamoiditis
Another possible culprit of pain in the big toe while running is sesamoiditis. With this form of tendinitis, sesamoids, which are basically tendons found under the foot near the base of the big toe, become irritated and inflamed. These small tendons aid in weight-bearing activities, such as running.
Bunions
Pain in the big toe may be the result of a bunion. In this situation, a bony protrusion has developed within the joint at the base of your toe. Like hallux rigidus, this condition is often associated with undue stress to the big toe, especially when pushed up against another toe of the foot. If you're wearing shoes that are too tight, you can easily trigger the spur's development.
Self-Care
Any one of these conditions responds favorably to self-care measures, especially for the short-term. Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can reduce swelling and ease any associated pain. Resting and icing the affected foot can also prove beneficial. Resting reduces further irritation to the joint, while icing drives blood from the area, further reducing inflammation and pain. You may also benefit from changing your footwear. With hallux rigidus and bunions, a larger or wider toe box can reduce pressure on the big toe. Orthotics and other cushioning pads can help alleviate stress that's causing sesamoiditis or bunions.
Professional Care
Medical care isn't usually necessary for people with sesamoiditis or bunions. It isn't until conservative measure fail that surgery is recommended. Hallux rigidus, on the other hand, typically needs to be treated by a medical professional. Self-care measures can ease the pain temporarily, but most people require a surgery to remove a spur, repair cartilage and even replace the affected joint. Your doctor can determine which option is best suited to your needs.
