What causes pain behind the big toe?

Pain behind the big toe is often caused by sesamoiditis (inflammation of the small bones under the big toe joint), turf toe, arthritis, or gout. Dancers and runners are especially prone to these conditions.

How do you treat sesamoiditis?

Treatment includes rest, cushioned insoles, taping the big toe, and anti-inflammatory care. Doctor Hoy's Natural Pain Relief provides topical relief. Severe cases may need steroid injections or custom orthotics from a podiatrist.

When is big toe pain serious?

See a podiatrist if big toe pain is sudden and severe (possible gout or fracture), limits walking, causes swelling or redness, or doesn't improve with 2 weeks of home care. Early treatment prevents chronic joint damage.

Foot Pain Behind Big Toe | Michigan Podiatrist

Name: Foot Pain Behind Big Toe | Michigan Podiatrist
Creator: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Published: 2012-04-16T18:30:45-04:00

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM

Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.

Medical References

Diagnosis and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (PubMed / AAFP)
Heel Pain (APMA)
Hallux Valgus (Bunions): Evaluation and Management (PubMed)
Bunions (Mayo Clinic)

This article has been reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM. References are provided for informational purposes.

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