Causes of Pain in the Big Toe

Big toe pain is a common foot problem that can be caused by various factors. The following are some common causes:

1. Trauma: Injuries such as stubbing, bruising, or crushing the toe can lead to soft tissue bruising, fractures, or dislocation of the big toe, resulting in pain.

2. Ingrown toenail: When the toenail grows abnormally or becomes infected with bacteria, it can cause redness, swelling, and pain around the nail. In severe cases, pus may develop.

3. Arthritis: Including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, these are among the most common causes of big toe pain. Osteoarthritis is typically age-related and involves cartilage wear, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can affect people of any age.

4. Gout: This condition is caused by excessive levels of uric acid in the body, leading to deposition of urate crystals in the joints. It often initially affects the big toe, causing severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth.

5. Hallux valgus: This is a skeletal deformity characterized by lateral deviation of the big toe at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. It may be accompanied by pain, swelling, and other symptoms.

6. Overuse: Prolonged wearing of ill-fitting shoes, such as high heels or pointed-toe shoes, may cause repeated friction on the big toe, leading to overuse-related pain.

7. Ingrowing toenail: When the edge of the toenail grows inward and pierces the skin, it can cause pain, redness and swelling, and even infection.