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 Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch 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. 

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 Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch 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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs. 

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, often beginning between the toes. It thrives in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, showers, and sweaty shoes. The condition causes itching, burning, redness, and cracked or peeling skin. In some cases, small blisters or scaling may occur, making the feet uncomfortable and unsightly. To manage athlete’s foot, keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas and change your socks and shoes regularly. Disinfect shared surfaces to prevent reinfection. If symptoms persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist. They can confirm the diagnosis and recommend prescribed medications or advanced care to ensure the infection clears up effectively.

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Athlete’s Foot? 

Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include: 

• Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet

• Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet

• Scaly, red rash on the foot

• Blisters 

• Foul odor

Treatment

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both. 

Prevention

Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices. 

You can prevent athlete’s foot by:

• Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day

• Wearing shoes when walking in public areas

• Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others

• Wearing shoes and socks made out of breathable materials

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Regular physical activity is important in managing diabetes and preventing foot complications. Exercise improves circulation, reducing the risk of peripheral artery disease and neuropathy, which can lead to slow-healing wounds and infections. Weight-bearing activities like walking help maintain foot strength, flexibility, and balance, lowering the risk of ulcers and falls. Strength training can enhance muscle support around the ankles and arches, improving overall foot function. Additionally, movement helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing inflammation that contributes to nerve damage. However, not all exercises are suitable for individuals with diabetic foot concerns. A combination of proper footwear, stretching, and supervised activity works best. Always check for cuts, blisters, or pressure points after exercise. Pairing physical activity with routine foot care and medical oversight enhances long-term foot health. If you are a diabetic, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist as part of your diabetes care team.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.