Treacherous Toes

In the grand scheme of limbs, toes are awfully small compared to other limbs on the body. Even though they are small, they provide vital support, balance, and strength for the rest of the foot. If the structure of the toe is compromised, pain and discomfort occurs. It’s interesting to note that toe deformities can result from a problem stemming in another part of the foot or even farther up the leg.

A quick symptom guide of various structure deformities can help pinpoint problems of treacherous toes. For a diagnosis and treatment plan, make an appointment with my office.

Symptoms of Bunions & Bunionettes:

• Bump appears at the base of the big (for bunion) or fifth toe (for bunionette)
• Pain, especially when wearing shoes that press or rub against the bump
• Big toe points toward the second toe

Symptoms of Hammertoe:

• Bending and curling of the second toe, but it can be found on any of the three middle toes
• It’s given its name for a reason… the shape resembles a hammer. The end part of the toe bends down into a claw-like deformity.
• Over time, pain persists on the top of the toe and one will not be able to move the toe.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis (joint disorder):

• Morning pain that diminishes as the day goes on
• Resting the joints minimizes pain
• Stiffness in the affected joint
• Increased pain after exercising

Symptoms of Gout (joint disorder):

• Jolts of pain in the affected joint
• Possible inflammation in the joint
• Increase in symptoms after eating certain foods
• Pain often starts during the night & is described as throbbing
• Joint becomes red, warm, and tender

Symptoms of Sesamoid:

• Pain in the ball of the foot, beneath the big toe
• Swelling in the ball of the foot
• Loss of range of motion in the big toe & difficulty walking

Image by Janine. (2009). toe family. Flickr. Retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/pinkcotton/3301572765/