Pain Under Your Big Toe? Causes and Effective Treatment
If you're experiencing pain under the big toe, you're not alone. This is one of the most common complaints we see at Lower Limb Clinic, and it's often a sign of Sesamoiditis or Hallux Rigidus. The good news? With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant improvement within 4-12 weeks depending on cause.
Common Causes of Pain Under the Big Toe
Sesamoiditis
The sesamoid bones under the big toe joint can become inflamed from repetitive pressure, causing pain directly under the ball of the foot at the big toe.
Who typically experiences this: Dancers, runners, those who wear high heels, people with high arches.
Hallux Rigidus
Arthritis of the big toe joint limits movement and causes pain, especially when pushing off during walking.
Who typically experiences this: Middle-aged and older adults, those with previous toe injuries, people with a family history.
Turf Toe
Sprain of the ligaments around the big toe joint from hyperextension causes pain and swelling.
Who typically experiences this: Athletes, especially those on artificial turf, dancers.
Without proper assessment, it's impossible to know exactly what's causing your pain under the big toe. What works for Sesamoiditis may not help—or could worsen—Hallux Rigidus.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should book an assessment if:
- Pain under the big toe persists for more than 2 weeks
- Pain affects your walking or activities
- You notice the toe becoming stiffer
- There's visible swelling around the big toe
"Most patients we see have tried various home remedies before booking. You're not wasting our time—persistent symptoms warrant professional assessment."
Our Diagnostic Approach
At your initial consultation, we'll:
Take a detailed history
Understanding when your pain under the big toe started, what makes it better or worse, and your activity levels.
Physical examination
Hands-on assessment of your foot, ankle, and lower limb.
Biomechanical assessment
Evaluating how you stand and walk, identifying any contributing factors.
Gait analysis (if indicated)
Video and pressure plate analysis to understand your movement patterns.
We'll explain our findings clearly and discuss all treatment options before recommending a plan.
How We Treat Pain Under the Big Toe
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Clinical and imaging assessment
Ultrasound and/or X-ray to diagnose the cause
Offloading orthotics
Custom devices to reduce pressure on the affected area
Stiff-soled footwear
Limit big toe motion if joint movement is painful
Injection therapy
For sesamoiditis or joint inflammation
"We don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Your plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals."
"I'd been suffering with pain under the big toe for months before finally coming to Lower Limb Clinic. Within weeks of starting treatment, the improvement was remarkable. Wish I'd come sooner!"
— Verified Patient Review
Common Questions About Pain Under the Big Toe
Ready to Find Out What's Causing Your Pain Under the Big Toe?
Book a comprehensive assessment with our MSc-qualified specialist. Most patients wish they'd come sooner.
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