What Is the Painful Bump Around My Big Toe?
The most common reasons for a painful bump around the big toe are:
- Gout. A painful form of arthritis that occurs when uric crystals build up in the big toe joint. The big toe joint becomes red, hot, painful, stiff, and swollen. Common foods that can cause gout are red meat, shellfish, alcohol, and sweetened drinks.
- Degenerative Arthritis. A condition of the big toe joint that causes spurring, pain, swelling, and a stiff big toe.
- Bunion. A progressive genetic deformity at the big toe joint where the big toe leans toward the second toe. As the big toe leans toward the second toe, the big toe joint falls out of alignment, causing a bony protrusion or “bump” on the foot. The condition gets worse with time and tight shoe wear.
A clinical assessment by Dr. Cowans, X-ray radiographs, and lab work are needed to determine the cause of the condition. The treatment options for these conditions are different, so make an appointment with Optimum Podiatry. With our personalized care, we can help determine the best treatment course for you.
