If you need a more accessible version of this website, click this button on the right.Switch to Accessible Site
During the Washington state stay at home order, as an allowed medical service, we are open Monday through Friday from 9 A.M. - 3 P.M. for virtual (telehealth) appointments, and for urgent or emergent in office appointments. All entering the clinic are required to wear a mask or bandana or scarf; and to wear gloves. All persons entering the office will be screened at the door for COVID symptoms. We appreciate your cooperation during this difficult time, and look forward to serving you all soon once the restrictions are lifted.

Gig Harbor (253) 858-8100
Same Day Emergency Appointment Available

 

Common Causes of Toe Pain

Tuesday, 04 October 2022 00:00

Toe pain can be very uncomfortable. The toes contain bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. An injury or infection to any one of these components can lead to toe pain. Pain in the toe region can be throbbing, piercing, continuous, or can briefly last. Aging can cause toe pain as the structures in the toe are subjected to so much wear and tear over a lifetime and this, in and of itself, can lead to toe pain. An injury to the toes, such as a stress fracture, dislocation, or sprain can damage them and cause pain. Bunions, athlete’s foot, and arthritis are also common causes of toe pain. When toe pain is the result of other physical conditions like peripheral arterial disease, or if it gives rise to other complications and leads to an infection, it can be dangerous, and a medical professional should be contacted immediately. If you are experiencing toe pain, you may or may not know the cause. A podiatrist can assist in providing a diagnosis and suggest an appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Toe Pain
Connect with us