Big toe pain can occur due to problems with tendons, bones or joints in your foot. If big toe pain doesn't go away on its own after a few days of rest, it may be a good idea to see your doctor.
Hallux Rigidus
Hallux rigidus is a type of arthritis that causes your big toe joint to stiffen, making it hard to bend your toe when you walk. The condition gradually worsens until the big toe joint becomes stiff or frozen. Hallux rigidus can occur if you have rheumatoid arthritis, fallen arches, gout, a previous toe injury, a family history of the condition or a joint abnormality. Hallux rigidus can also occur if you have a hobby or job that involves frequent stooping and squatting. In addition to stiffness, symptoms include pain when bending, standing, walking, running or squatting. Pain may be a problem even when you aren't walking and you may eventually develop a bone spur on the joint.
Sesamoid Problems
Two small bones called sesamoids help your tendons slide, raise the bones of the big toe and help your feet bear your weight. Sesamoids are located under your foot near your big toe and are connected to tendons. These bones can break or inflammation can occur in the surrounding tendons, causing pain when you walk. Pain caused by a fracture will occur immediately, while sesamoiditis, or tendon pain, may occur gradually. If you develop a problem with one of your sesamoid bones, it can be painful and difficult to straighten or bend your big toe. You may be more likely to develop sesamoiditis if you run, serve as a baseball catcher or are a ballet dancer.
Bunions
A bunion causes your big toe joint to bend outward, causing pain when you walk. You may notice red skin over your toe and the joint may feel tender when you touch it. Pain with walking increases as your bunion grows larger. If you don't seek treatment for your bunion, you may develop arthritis in the joint. Bunions can run in families, but often develop if your shoes are too tight. Women who wear tight high-heeled shoes are more likely to develop the problem.
Treatment
Wearing larger shoes that have more room in the toes can be helpful if you have hallux rigidus or a bunion. Roomy shoes allow ample room for foot movement and reduce stress on your big toe joint. Shoes with soft soles or extra cushioning may make walking more comfortable if you have sesamoiditis. If you have a fractured sesamoid bone, your doctor may recommend that you wear a leg fracture brace in addition to using extra cushioning. No matter what type of toe problem you have, applying ice to the joint and taking over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve symptoms. Wearing special shoes supports, participating in physical therapy or undergoing corticosteroid injections may be helpful if you have hallux rigidus. Your doctor may recommend surgery to treat hallux rigidus, sesamoiditis, sesamoid fracture or a bunion if more conservative treatments are unsuccessful.
