What Causes Toe Pain and How It Can Be Treated

Toe pain can come from many sources. Common causes include ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, and nerve issues like morton’s neuroma. Repetitive pressure from wearing tight shoes or high heels can also lead to corns, calluses, or joint inflammation. Injuries such as sprains or fractures may cause sudden, sharp pain. Sometimes the issue is structural, where misalignment places strain on joints and soft tissue. Treatment depends on the cause. It may involve changing footwear, using orthotics, taking anti-inflammatory medication, or applying pads to protect tender areas. In some cases, targeted exercises or minor procedures may help relieve symptoms and restore movement. Ongoing pain should not be ignored. If you have toe pain that is limiting your activity or not getting better, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

  • Trauma or fracture
  • Cuts, sores, or bruises
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout
  • Turf Toe
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Blisters
  • Corns
  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Plantar warts
  • Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

  • Toe deformity
  • Burning
  • Numbness
  • Toenail deformity
  • Wart or ulcer
  • Swelling
  • Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

  • Bleeding or severe swelling
  • Trauma, such as a broken bone
  • Discoloration or extreme swelling
  • Inability to bear weight
  • Persistent pain
  • Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Heel Pain in Growing Kids

Apophysitis of the calcaneus, also known as Sever’s disease, is a common cause of heel pain in children and teens, especially those who are active in sports. It happens when the growth plate in the heel becomes irritated from too much stress or pressure. This area is still developing in young people, so it is more sensitive to pulling from the Achilles tendon during running and jumping. The pain often feels like a dull ache or sharp discomfort in the back or bottom of the heel, and it may get worse with activity. The heel may feel sore to the touch or stiff in the morning. Rest and gentle stretching can help relieve symptoms. Supportive shoes or heel pads may also reduce pressure on the heel. If your child is limping or complaining of heel pain, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of foot pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Sever’s Disease? 

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include: 

  • Pain in the back or bottom of the heel
  • Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed
  • Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel
  • Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities
  • Fatigue 

Diagnosis

Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture. 

Treatment

Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Symptoms and Relief for Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may be present from birth or develop over time due to injury, aging, or strain. Common symptoms include foot pain, swelling, or aching in the arch or heel, especially after long periods of standing or walking. Flat feet can affect one foot or both, and the severity may differ between them. Although it is not always painful, it can lead to discomfort in the ankles, knees, or lower back. Relief options include wearing supportive footwear, orthotic inserts and stretching exercises. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can provide necessary treatment for existing pain and discomfort. 

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

  • Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot
  • Overpronation of the foot
  • Shin splints
  • Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs
  • Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Common Locations of Corns

Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop as a result of repeated pressure or friction. They often form to protect the skin from irritation, becoming dense and sometimes painful. Corns are commonly confused with calluses, but they tend to be smaller, deeper, and more painful to the touch. The main causes of corns include wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, walking barefoot frequently, or having foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions. Corns typically develop in areas where the bones of the feet rub against footwear. Common locations include the tops and sides of toes, between toes, and on the soles of the feet. Corns can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can offer relief and prevention tips.

Corns are small bumps or dry, hardened skin that can arise on the feet, usually in response to friction. Corns can be asymptomatic, or they can be uncomfortable or painful. If you have corns that are bothering you, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are three types of corns:

  • Hard corns
    • Often occur on the tops of toes
    • Feature a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin
    • Can be painful
  • Soft corns
    • Often occur in between the toes
    • Soft due to constant exposure to sweat
    • Can be painful
  • Seed corns
    • Tiny
    • Often occur on the soles of the feet
    • Usually asymptomatic

Corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly. They are typically benign and don’t require medical treatment. However, if your corns are causing you pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a chiropodist near you for treatment options. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?

Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.

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