Big Toe Joint Pain

People who experience pain in their joints can be suffering from one of several conditions. When a person experiences big toe joint pain it can be an indication of gout. This ailment is due to the formation of crystals containing uric acid within the joints. In past decades this condition was associated with people who were wealthy and overweight. Being overweight can contribute to having gout as can drinking excessive amounts of alcohol or eating foods rich in a substance called purine. This substance is higher in red meats such as liver than it is in grains such as rice.

• Another ailment associated with pain in the joint of the big toe is arthritis. This can be either rheumatoid or osteoarthritis depending on the affliction. Rheumatoid affects the synovial lining causing inflammation. The inflamed area will limit the amount of movement the toe has as well as cause a degree of pain. Osteoarthritis is the wearing down of the cartilage in the joints. There are no cures for arthritis, but people can take steps to prevent or slow the onset, which include getting adequate amounts of calcium each day. Exercise is also a good way to strengthen bones and tendons, and should include walking barefoot to allow the structure of toes and feet to move in a natural and unrestricted manner.

The condition known as Hallux Rigidus affects the ball section of the big toe joint. This is a degenerative condition, which gradually decreases the amount of motion the toe has. People usually do not notice it right away because it is a slow progressing condition. They might notice an amount of pain along with a bit of stiffness, which can lead to immobility in the end. This is usually due to an abnormality in the structure of the toe and the way it moves. The abnormal alignment leads to the eventual wearing down of the lining between bones. It can also occur in people who overwork their feet with excessive walking, jogging or running.