Causes of Pain in the Big Toe

Big toe pain can stem from various causes, including injuries, structural issues, and inflammatory conditions. Sudden trauma, such as turf toe, occurs when the joint is hyperextended, leading to ligament sprains. Chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and gout can result in joint stiffness, swelling, and pain due to cartilage degeneration or uric acid crystal buildup. Bunions, caused by joint misalignment, often worsen over time, creating discomfort and difficulty wearing certain footwear. Lesser-known conditions like sesamoiditis, involving inflammation of small bones under the big toe, can cause pain when walking. Fractures and sprains are also common sources of toe pain, often resulting from high-impact activities or accidents. A chiropodist can assess the underlying cause of your big toe pain and recommend footwear modifications, orthotics, or methods to reduce pain and restore function. If you are experiencing pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for professional advice.

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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What You Need to Know About Heel Pain

Heel pain is one of the most frequent reasons people visit a chiropodist. It often starts as a sharp or aching pain in the bottom or back of the heel. One of the leading causes is plantar fasciitis, which results from inflammation of the band of tissue that supports your arch. Other causes include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, bursitis, or stress fractures. Heel pain can make walking difficult and affect your daily activities. Wearing unsupportive shoes, standing for long periods of time, or increasing physical activity too quickly can make the problem worse. Early treatment is important and may include stretching exercises, wearing supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. In more serious cases, additional therapies or medical procedures may be recommended. If you have heel pain that does not improve, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel 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 lower limbs and your mobility. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

  • Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs
  • Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness
  • Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time
  • Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking
  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel
  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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How Kickball Can Hurt Kids’ Feet

Kickball is all about running, kicking, and quick movements, but these actions can put stress on a child’s feet. Forceful kicking can bruise the top of the foot, causing pain and swelling. Running on hard surfaces, especially without proper footwear, may lead to heel pain or inflammation in the arch. Fast stops and sudden turns increase the risk of ankle sprains, while awkward landings can result in toe fractures. Repeated bending of the big toe during powerful kicks can cause turf toe, a painful sprain that makes movement difficult. Kids who play frequently may also develop overuse injuries that linger beyond the game. Supportive athletic shoes with good cushioning and grip can help prevent many of these injuries. If a child experiences ongoing pain or swelling from playing kickball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can provide treatment to keep your children active and injury-free.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, 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. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

  • Achilles tendon injuries
  • Ankle strains or sprains
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Fractures
  • Turf toe
  • Joint dislocations
  • Sever’s disease
  • Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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

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Causes of Arch Pain and Stretches for Relief

Pain in the arch of the foot can result from various conditions that affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause, occurring when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. Flat feet, high arches, or improper footwear can also place excessive stress on the arch. Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon issues may contribute to discomfort by altering foot mechanics. Gentle stretches can help relieve tension and improve flexibility. Stretching the calf by pressing the heel down while leaning forward against a wall can reduce strain on the arch. Rolling a ball under the foot and performing toe stretches can also provide relief. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can determine what the cause is and offer you appropriate relief and treatment techniques.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your 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. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes
  • Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet
  • Arthritis
  • Flat feet
  • Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

  • Heel pain
  • Arch pain
  • Toe pain
  • Ball of foot pain
  • Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality
  • Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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

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We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

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