6 Symptoms of Arthritis in the Toes

If you’re experiencing pain and discomfort in your big toe, you may have a foot ailment known as toe arthritis. Today Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC discuss what you can do if you are suffering from this condition.

What is toe arthritis?

This condition is typically caused by the inflammation of the toe joint and usually targets the big toe. Previous traumas or injuries - such as a sprained or broken toe - can lead to arthritis.

Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of arthritis, and aging. Women who wear snug-fitting or high-heeled shoes most of the time may also be at a higher risk for this condition.

Following are 6 of the most common symptoms of this condition.

1. Inflexibility: Arthritis ultimately wears away at the cartilage that is between the toes and makes the joints difficult to move. With less cushioning, joints become resistant to bending and stretching.

2. Changes in the appearance of the toe: As the cartilage disintegrates, the body tries to rectify the condition by creating more bone. This can make it look larger, or like it has a big bump on it, similar to a bunion.

3. Pain when walking: You may find yourself adjusting your gait as you try to put less weight on your toes. Unfortunately, this can have an effect on the rest of your body, causing back or hip pain, weight gain, and other issues.

4. Pain: Pain in the toes (or only the big toe) is often the first obvious symptom of arthritis. The degree of pain can vary depending on the level of deterioration in the joint and can make everyday tasks challenging.

5. Popping and clicking sounds: These sounds are caused by the corrosion of the cartilage that usually supports the bones in a joint. When this happens, the bones may rub against one another, causing these sounds.

6. Swelling: All types of arthritis create swelling in the joints, and this can cause visible swelling. In some instances, the toes may get red and feel warm when touched.

If you think you may have arthritis in your feet or toes, contact the offices of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello, at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Newtown and Waterbury, CT.