Pain under the big toe joint
The sesamoids are two pea sized bones within the tendons under your big toe joint. Sesamoiditis is when they become inflamed. This causes pain, particularly when walking and running. Sesamoiditis can be caused by repetitive trauma to the area or your natural foot shape and mechanics such as a high arched foot with a prominent big toe joint. Dancers and people that wear high heels are more prone to this.
We can help with footwear advice, padding, strapping, and possible orthotics to relieve stress on the sesamoids.
Stiff Big Toe
Hallux rigidus/limitusis a form of arthritis that affects the big toe joint. It causes pain and stiffness in the joint, and over time it can become increasingly harder to bend the toe. It can be caused by trauma, faulty foot function, arthritis or it can be hereditary.
We can help by providing shoe modifications, padding, or orthotics. In very extreme cases a podiatric surgeon may assist with removing bony lumps or fusing the joint.
Pain at the base of the toes
A bursa is a fluid-filled cushioning sac that help to cushion, and shock absorb. We have them between our toes called inter metatarsal bursae. When they become inflamed, this is called bursitis. Wearing narrow or excessively worn footwear throughout the day or while playing sports increases your chance of bursitis developing.
We can advise you on appropriate footwear or add padding to your existing shoes. We can for you for orthotics and advise with taping and strapping techniques.
Tingling or burning sensation
This is called a neuroma. It is caused by thickening of the tissue that surrounds the nerve leading to the toes. It causes a burning, tingling and generally unpleasant sensation around the toes. It can intensify with activity or certain footwear. It can develop from compression or irritation of the toes foot wear, activity, foot mechanics or deformities.
We can help by devising a rehab plan of exercises, assessing your footwear and adding a metatarsal dome to your shoes.
