Pain in the toes (toe pain)
Au, au! Pain in the toes and toe pain can affect all of us. Toe pain and pain in the toes can affect work ability and quality of life. Here you will find good information that will help you understand more about why you have pain in your toes and what you can do about it. Pain in the toes can be caused by osteoarthritis and dysfunction of the muscles and joints. The article also offers exercises and so-called measures if the toes have turned completely wrong.
Toe pain can be caused by several different factors, but some of the most common are overload, trauma, wear and tear, muscular failure loads, joint restrictions and biomechanical dysfunction. Sore toes are a nuisance that affects a larger proportion of the population. Feel free to contact us on Facebook if you have any questions or input.
- Written by: The pain clinics - Interdisciplinary Health department Lambertseter (Oslo) og Dept. Eidsvoll Sundet [See full clinic overview here . Link opens in new window]
- Last updated: 05.05.2023
- Sore toes can cause accompanying pain in the knees, hips and back
Our toes are very important when it comes to normal walking and shock absorption. Good function in our toes provides the basis for good balance and weight transfer when we move. Not surprisingly, sore toes and feet can cause us to both walk and stand differently. In certain cases, it can also give rise to lameness. Over time, such a changed gait could lead to miscompensation in muscles, tendons and joints. Especially the knees, hips and back are the areas that can be wrongly loaded.
Relief and Load management
Almost regardless of where in your toes you have pain, it may be wise to relieve yourself for a period. Here we particularly want to highlight forefoot supports with damping and built-in toe separators. These help to keep the toes in an optimal position at the same time as they provide increased cushioning, rest and relief for the toes and forefoot. As simple as it is brilliant.
Tips: Forefoot supports with toe separators (The link opens in a new window)
Click on the image or link to read more about the front footrests and how they provide relief for sore toes.
"TIP: Further down in the article you can see two videos with training exercises. At the bottom of the article, you can also read comments, questions and input from readers who are in the same situation as you.
VIDEO: 5 Exercises against Pain in the Forefoot and toes
Click below to watch a video of a five-workout exercise program for front and back pain. Strength, good function and mobility in the feet are essential to improve local blood circulation and less pain in your toes. These exercises can help you.
Join our family and subscribe to our YouTube channel for free exercise tips, exercise programs and health knowledge. Welcome!
VIDEO: 6 Exercises against the Anterior Plantar Fascite
The plantar fascia (tendon plate) under the foot attaches both at the anterior end of the heel bone and into the underside of the toes (the metatarsal joints). Therefore, plantar fascitis may also be a possible cause of the pain in your toes. These exercises can help you loosen tense muscles in the foot blade and relieve your toes. Click on the video below.
Did you enjoy the videos? If you took advantage of them, we would really appreciate you subscribing to our YouTube channel and giving us a thumbs up on social media. It means a lot to us. Thank you very much!
Differential diagnosis of toe pain
Other diagnoses that can cause pain in the toes are gout, gout (affecting big toe first), plantar fascite, hammer toe / hallux valgus, Morton's neuroma and lumbar prolapse, and many more.
- Also read: Can you have a stress fracture in the foot?
- Remember: If you have questions that are not covered by the article, then you can ask your question in the comments field (you will find it at the bottom of the article). We will then do our best to answer you within 24 hours.
What can I do even against pain?
1. General exercise, specific exercise and activity are recommended, but stay within the pain limit. Two walks a day of 20-40 minutes make good for the body and aching muscles.
2. Trigger point / massage balls we strongly recommend - they come in different sizes so you can hit well even on all parts of the body. There is no better self help than this! We recommend the following (click the image below) - which is a complete set of 5 trigger point / massage balls in different sizes:
3. Training: Specific training with training tricks of various opponents (such as this complete set of 6 knits of different resistance) can help you train strength and function. Knit training often involves more specific training, which in turn can lead to more effective injury prevention and pain reduction.
4. Pain Relief - Cooling: Biofreeze is a natural product that can relieve pain by cooling the area gently. Cooling is especially recommended when the pain is very severe. When they have calmed down then heat treatment is recommended - it is therefore advisable to have both cooling and heating available.
5. Pain Relief - Heating: Warming up tight muscles can increase blood circulation and reduce pain. We recommend the following reusable hot / cold gasket (click here to read more about it) - which can be used both for cooling (can be frozen) and for heating (can be heated in the microwave).
Also read: These 7 Measures Can Relieve Foot Pain
Some symptoms of pain in the toes
My toes are lazy. My toes are burning. My toes fall asleep. Cramps in the toes. The toes lock. Numbness in the toes. Wounds between the toes. Tingling in the toes. Itching on the toes. The toes curl.
These are all symptoms that a clinician may hear from patients. We recommend that you map your toe pain well before going to your clinic (which you should definitely do in the case of permanent toe pain). Think about frequency (how often have you hurt your toes?), Duration (how long does the pain last?), Intensity (on a pain scale of 1-10, how bad is it at worst? And how bad is it usually?).
Name of the toes
This is called the toes from the big toe to the side:
hallux, also known as the big toe. Second toe, also known as the long toe or 2ndre phalanx. Third toe, known as the middle toe or third phalanx. Fourth toe, known as the ring toe or fourth phalanx. And fifth toe, which is known as the little toe or fifth phalanx.
Common causes of toe pain
The most common cause of toe pain is a combination of muscle and joint dysfunction. This can involve tight, sore muscles (often called myalgias or muscle knots), as well as joint restrictions in affected joint areas. Malfunctions over time or sudden overload can result in reduced movement and pain. Wear changes (osteoarthritis) can also be part of the problem.
Muscle knots never occur alone, but are almost always part of the problem - this is because muscles and joints can not move independently of each other. So it's never "just muscular" - there are always several factors that make your toes hurt. There may also be congenital misalignments in the foot blade that cause you to misload the toe and foot. Therefore, it is very important to examine and treat both muscles and joints to achieve a normal movement pattern and function - this in combination with exercises and exercises can really improve function.
Other diagnoses that can cause toe pain
Joint locker in the foot or ankle
muscle Knots / Myalgia in the foot, ankle and leg:
Active trigger points will cause pain all the time from the muscle (eg gastrocsoleus and tight leg muscles)
Latent trigger points provides pain through pressure, activity and strain
Spinal stenosis of the lower back
Sore toes can be caused by muscular tension, joint dysfunction and / or irritation of nearby nerves. A chiropractor or other expert in musculoskeletal and nerve disorders can diagnose your ailment and give you a thorough explanation of what can be done in the form of treatment and what you can do on your own. Make sure you do not walk with sore toes for a long time, rather contact a clinician and be diagnosed with the cause of the pain.
X-ray of the toes
X-ray image of the foot - Photo Wikimedia
- X-ray of the foot, lateral angle (seen from the side), in the picture we see the tibia (inner shin), fibula (outer shin), talus (boat bone), calcaneus (heel), cuneiforms, metatarsal and phalanges (toes).
Picture of gout
As you can see, gout affects the big toe first. Uric acid crystals are formed and we get a red and swollen toe joint.
- Read more by clicking here: Gout - Cause, diagnosis and treatment.
Classification of pain in the toes (toe pain)
Sore toes can be divided into acute, subacute og chronic pain. Acute toe pain means that the person has had pain in the toes for less than three weeks, subacute is the period from three weeks to three months and the pain that has a duration of more than three months is classified as chronic.
Pain in the toes can be caused by overload, osteoarthritis, muscular tension, joint dysfunction and/or irritation of nearby nerves. A chiropractor or another expert in muscle, bone and nerve disorders can diagnose your condition and give you a thorough explanation of what can be done in terms of treatment and what you can do on your own. Make sure you don't walk with pain in your toes for a long time, rather contact a clinician and get the cause of the pain diagnosed.
First, a mechanical examination will be performed where the clinician looks at the foot's movement pattern or possible lack of this. Muscle strength is also studied here, as well as specific tests that give the clinician an indication of what gives the person sore toes. In case of toe problems, an imaging diagnosis may be necessary. A chiropractor has the right to refer such examinations in the form of X-rays, MRI, CT and ultrasound. Conservative treatment is always worth trying on such ailments. The treatment you receive will vary, depending on what was found during the clinical examination.
Manual treatment: Clinically proven effect on relief of toe pain in plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia
A recent meta-study (Brantingham et al. 2012) showed that manipulation of plantar fascia and metatarsalgia gave symptomatic relief. Using this in conjunction with pressure wave therapy will produce an even better effect based on research. Indeed, Gerdesmeyer et al (2008) demonstrated that treatment with pressure waves provides a significant statistically significant improvement when it comes to pain reduction, functional improvement and quality of life after only 3 treatments in patients with chronic plantar fascia.
Manual treatment of toe pain
As mentioned earlier, both chiropractor and manual therapist are the occupational groups with the longest education and public authorization from the health authorities - that is why these therapists (including physiotherapists) see the majority of patients with muscle and joint ailments. The main goal of all manual treatment is to reduce pain, promote general health and increased quality of life by restoring normal function in the musculoskeletal system and nervous system. In case of musculoskeletal disorders, the clinician will treat the toes locally to reduce pain, reduce irritation and increase blood supply, as well as restore normal movement in areas affected by joint dysfunction - this can be e.g. foot, ankle, hip and pelvis. When choosing a treatment strategy for the individual patient, the publicly authorized clinician places emphasis on seeing the patient in a holistic context. If there is a suspicion that the pain is due to another disease, you will be referred for further examination.
Manual treatment (from a chiropractor or manual therapist) consists of a number of treatment methods where the therapist mainly uses the hands to restore normal function in joints, muscles, connective tissue and nervous system:
- Specific joint treatment
- Stretches
- Muscular techniques
- Neurological techniques
- Stabilizing exercise
- Exercises, advice and guidance
What does a chiropractor or manual therapist do?
Muscle, joint and nerve pain: These are things that a chiropractor or manual therapist can help prevent and treat. Chiropractic / manual therapy is mainly about restoring movement and joint function that may be impaired by mechanical pain.
This is done by so-called joint correction or manipulation techniques, as well as joint mobilization, stretching techniques, and muscular work (such as trigger point therapy and deep soft tissue work) on the involved muscles. With increased function and less pain, it may be easier for individuals to engage in physical activity, which in turn will have a positive effect on both energy and health.
Exercises, training and ergonomic considerations
An expert in muscle and skeletal disorders can, based on your diagnosis, inform you about the ergonomic considerations you must take to prevent further damage, thus ensuring the fastest possible healing time. After the acute part of the pain is over, in most cases you will also be assigned home exercises that also help to reduce the chance of relapse. In the case of chronic ailments, it is necessary to go through the motor movements you do in everyday life, in order to weed out the cause of your pain occurring time and again.
- Here you will find an overview and list of exercises we have published in connection with the prevention, prevention and relief of pain in the toes, toe pain, stiff toes, osteoarthritis and other relevant diagnoses.
4 Exercises against Plattfoot (Pes Planus)
5 Exercises against Hallux Valgus (Leaning Big Toe)
7 Tips and Remedies for Foot Pain
RELATED PRODUCT / SELF-HELP: - Hallux Valgus Support
Plagued with hallux valgus (crooked big toe) and / or bone growth (bunion) on the big toe? Then this can be part of the solution to your problem! With this you get a more correct load on the forefoot and big toe.
Also read:
- Pressure wave treatment of plantar fascite
- Exercises and stretching for heel pain
- Toe spreads in the treatment of sore toes and hallux valgus?
Other commonly reported symptoms and causes of pain in the toes and toe pain
- Acute pain in the toe
- Chronic pain in the toes
- Pain in the toes and ankles
- Pain in the toes and fingers
- Pain in the toes and feet
- Pain in the toes and foot leaves
- Pain in the toes and leg
- Pain in the toes of children
- Pain in the toes at night
- Pain in the toe after running
- Pain in the toe after stroke
- Pain in the toe for no reason
- Pain in the toe during walking
- Pain in the toe when jogging
- Pain in the joint of the toe
- Pain in the toe ball
- Pain in the toenail
Pain clinics: Contact us or book an appointment
We offer modern assessment, treatment and rehabilitation training for foot, toe and ankle ailments.
Feel free to contact us via one of our clinic departments (the clinic overview opens in a new window) or on vår Facebook-side (Vondtklinikkenne - Health and Training) if you have any questions. For appointment booking, we have XNUMX-hour online booking at the various clinics so that you can find the consultation time that suits you best. You are of course also welcome to call us during the clinics' opening hours. We have interdisciplinary departments in, among other places, Oslo (incl Lambert seats) and Viken (Raw wood og Eidsvoll Sound). Our skilled therapists look forward to helping you.
References:
- NHI - Norwegian Health Informatics.
- Brantingham, JW. Manipulative therapy for lower extremity conditions: update of a literature review. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2012 Feb;35(2):127-66. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2012.01.001.
- Gerdesmeyer, L. Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic recalcitrant plantar fasciitis: results of a confirmatory randomized placebo-controlled multicenter study. Am J Sports Med. 2008 Nov; 36 (11): 2100-9. doi: 10.1177 / 0363546508324176. Epub 2008 Oct 1.
Frequently asked questions about pain in the toes (FAQ)
Anatomical overview of plantar nerves in the foot?
Answer: Here you have an illustration that shows the plantar nerves in the foot. On the inside of the foot we find the medial plantar nerves, on the way out to the outside of the foot we find the lateral plantar nerves - in between the toes we find the common digital nerves, these are the ones that can be affected by what we call Morton's Nevrom Syndrome - which is a kind of irritated nerve node. Morton's neuroma syndrome usually occurs between the second and third toes, or the third and fourth toes.
Anatomical overview of plantar nerves in the foot - Photo Wikimedia
Is bad toe a sign of osteoporosis?
No, sore toe and osteoporosis (reduced bone mass) do not have to have anything to do with each other. However, if you have been shown to have osteoporosis, it is important that you exercise regularly to maintain good function and stimulate strengthening of the bone tissue.
What are common causes of very sore toes?
The most common causes of pain in the toes are dysfunction in muscles (tight muscles in the calves and soles of the feet) and joints - but pain in the toes can also be due to osteoarthritis, the consept of rheumatism, gout, hallux valgus, hammer toe and sciatica (to mention a few).
- Similar questions with the same answer: 'Have bad toes. What's the cause? ',' Has a really sore toe. Why do I have a sore toe? '
Why do you get pain in the toe joint?
There are several possible reasons for getting hurt in the toe joint. Some of the most common are osteoarthritis (arthritis), arthritis, rheumatism, hallux valgus and gout. Here it is important to see the other symptoms in connection with the pain in the toe joint to land on the correct diagnosis.
Can you get inflammation in the toes?
Yes, you can. You can read more about inflammation in the toes by pressing here .
Cramps in the toes. What is it?
The most common cause of cramping in the toes and feet is tight foot muscles. This may be due to overload or incorrect load. Other possible causes are dehydration (with a lack of electrolytes - such as magnesium and potassium), sciatica (referred nerve pain) and morton's neuroma (local nerve pain between the toes - most often third and fourth toe).
Remember: If you have questions that are not covered by the article, you can ask your question in this comment field (or via our facebook page). We will then do our best to answer you within 24 hours.
Do you help now? My 2nd toes tip always pain so much.. like it's burning. Can u tell me what is the possible cause for it?
Hi Al,
Based on the location and pain description it is likely you are suffering from Morton's Neuroma (link opens in new window).
All the best,
Nicolai (Vondtklinikkenne – Norway)
https://www.vondt.net/vaareklinikker/
Hi, can anyone help my poor 69 year old mother? she has been aching in all her toes for years and has always thought she is all alone about this? she says she has as much pain in all her toes as it should have been the worst toothache, and I feel really sorry for her, so when I read some of the above I think she has some of this, so I almost ask someone for help here so she can get the joy of life back because this literally really consumes my mother! Asking and hoping for a quick and positive response?
Hi Berit,
Uff, that does not sound good.
There are a number of measures that can be tried out. Among other things, glucosamine sulphate for osteoarthritis (read more: https://www.vondt.net/glukosamin-sulfat-mot-slitasje-artrose-smerte-og-symptomer/) or circulatory devices as mentioned in the pain in the toes article - as it is this increased blood circulation that helps to heal in affected tissue.
Has your mother ever taken an RTG off her feet? Could it be joint wear? There are also muscles that can cause pain from the sole of the foot and towards the toes, including myalgia / myosis in the adductor hallucis or flexor hallucis brevis (read more: https://www.vondt.net/vondt-i-musklene-muskelknuter-og-triggerpunkter/)
Pain in the feet with radiation pain or 'toothache' can also be due to nerve irritation e.g. sciatica. (Read more: https://www.vondt.net/hvor-har-du-vondt/vondt-i-korsryggen/isjias/)
Are there any of these articles you feel relate to your mother's ailments?
We look forward to helping you further.
Regards.
Alexander v / Vondt.net
Hi, sometimes when I go to bed I get terrible pain in the three toes in the middle, on the left foot. It tears over when I change position. What can this be?
Hi Helene,
Here we probably need a little more comprehensive information to be able to help you. How long have you had pain in your toes, how often does this pain occur, when did it start for the first time and the like. Great if you can write a little more about the ailments as I said - then we will help you find out what it could be.
1) Also feel free to describe the pain - are they like electric shock, icy pain or the like?
2) Have you ever injured your foot or toes?
On a standing foot (yes), your pain can be due to osteoarthritis, nerve irritation or dysfunction in muscles / joints in the foot or ankle.
Regards.
Nicole v / Vondt.net
Hi, woke up with insane pain in my toes. Have had occasional illness with vomiting and diarrhea for 2-3 days. Could it have a cause?
Hi Dagny,
Yes, periodontal disease and diarrhea can lead to hypokalaemia - that is, a lack of electrolytes. This can cause severe pain, cramps and the like. Stay hydrated and make sure you get enough nutrition.
Are you doing better today?
skew dry lying over each other, pain and growing a few lumps of skin over…
Uff then, Turid .. but we probably need a little more comprehensive information to be able to help you. Do you have something special you are wondering about or similar? What kind of treatment have you received for your toe problem?
Hello.
I have for a couple of days now had great pain in the left big toe and around the joint to it, is something the hoof.
Occasionally hurts when the foot is at rest, but as soon as I take it down (if I have had it high) it hurts a lot.
The area under the toe and joint is very tender to the touch, and it hurts a lot if I try to emphasize the area when I stand / walk.
Hope you have some good advice.
Regards Kai (27 years old)
Hey Kai,
This sounds like an infection (have you ingrown toenails on your big toe?), Synovitis (read more: https://www.vondt.net/oversikt/revmatisme-revmatiske-diagnoser/synovitt-leddbetennelse/) or gout (more here: https://www.vondt.net/hvor-har-du-vondt/vondt-i-taerne/urinsyregikt/) - if there has been no injury or trauma? Of course, if you recently hit it, it could also be a breach.
The reason why it hurts when you lower it is that the blood circulation thus increases in the area - the area that is possibly inflamed.
Try to freeze the toe - 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off - 3-4x a day. Anti-inflammatory drugs (ibux) can also reduce inflammation. You should expect an improvement within 2-3 days. If it does not get better, we recommend that you contact your GP.
Regards.
Alexander v / Vondt.net
Boy, 13 years with big toe pain. Plays a lot of football, but can not remember acute injury. The ankle and toes often feel stiff. Known hollow foot, just started something with footbed.
Yesterday, his foot felt stiff before a football match, and after the match he has not been able to step on his foot. Sees and feels no swelling or redness, but is pressure sores on the upper / inner part of the outer joint and the bone between the joints. No pain when pressing on the underside of the base joint, no pain when passively moving the big toe.
Fucking in the toe and it hurts.
Hi Lene,
Hollow foot often also brings with it overpronation - overpronation will again put increased pressure on the big toe, both in the joint, associated muscles and the surrounding tendons. With such an overload over a long period of time, even boys at that age can incur a stress break or deficiency. It may also be the tendons around the big toe that have been damaged and thus can not help stabilize the toe in a good way - which led to when he played football again, an underlying irritation worsened.
In the inability to be able to emphasize the foot, we know that it is a degree 2 or 3 tendon injury (but then strange that it is not swollen .. but maybe it is today?) Or a fracture. The buttoning may be from an injured tendon.
In any case, we recommend rest, icing and get an X-ray and a diagnostic ultrasound examination booked to find the cause of the problem.
By the way, the fact that he uses footbeds indicates quite extensive foot dysfunction and then it is not certain that he should play football due to heavy, repetitive strain and explosive movements that we find in this sport. Yes, it can go well at this age - but increased age means poorer recovery and thus a greater chance of injury.
How is he doing today? Have your foot and ankle swollen?
Slight swelling (furrows on the upper side of the toe slightly less visible than on the other side), about the same level of pain as yesterday.
Okay, have you tried to freeze the damage? Was it also painful during the night or did he sleep well?
Only ist down once yesterday and once today. Not painful tonight. This afternoon less pain, more bothered by the joint locking sometimes (then it hurts).
Ok, positive that there was no night pain. May indicate that there is no fracture, but if the symptoms persist, you should contact a GP or other clinician with expertise in muscles and joints (eg chiropractor or manual therapist). You can wish him well.
Just have to add this little nut to you! 😀
Lady 45 years. Woke up last night with severe pain in the long toe. Pain when loading and moving (walking, touching feet / toes), but not hurt when touching or stretching joints!
Today the situation is the same. Able to identify that it hurts and is tender when I press the underside of the innermost joint against the sole of the foot. No redness, no swelling or heat rash on the toe. Nail ok.
What in the world can this be? Neurological error signals? 😀
Hi Cecilie,
A nerve irritation of L5 (fifth lumbar vertebra, lower vertebra in the lower back) is a possibility of severe pain in the long toe (middle toe) - but then we would also assume that you had back pain, especially with forward bending - and possibly also neurological symptoms in the outer leg. Other possible diagnoses are Morton's Nevrom (this usually occurs with strong, sharp pain between the 3rd and 4th toe - and is more painful with strain or pressure) or referred pain from a muscle knot in the calf (musculus extensor digitorum may refer pain to the long toe).
Is it e.g. hurts to squeeze the foot together (from the outside inwards)? Is the pain constant or is it like electric shock or the like?
Looking forward to helping you further.
Regards.
Alexander v / Vondt.net
Hello.
I struggle with sore toes, ankles, Achilles. The pain is worst evening / night and morning. Sometimes in the morning I can barely get my feet out of bed before throbbing pain takes hold. Sometimes it hurts so much that tears well up and I have to spend a long time recovering. Have been to a rheumatologist, but there I am diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Rash on all trigger points and muscle points, but I have had this for about 20 years. Began at the age of 14-15, but then «too young» for that diagnosis. Is now 37 years old, but these foot / toe pains have come in the last year. Is unfortunately not a good patient .. (!) Injured head / neck last summer, so I can not use the body as much physically as I want. Feeling helpless. Tips and advice received with thanks!
Hi Ragnhild,
As you know, fibromyalgia can lead to increased sensitivity in the body, including the feet. The feet are the area with the highest number of nerve fibers, so it is no wonder that malfunctions here often make significantly worse in those with fibro than those without. Based on what you say - with morning pain when stepping down - I think you also have some plantar fasciitis with associated heel spurs under the foot / front edge of the heel. Then it is extra important that you are a "good patient" and do exercises as well as stretching to counteract tight muscles in the foot and leg.
- Here you will find good advice and measures against foot pain.
- Here you will find exercises for foot pain and plantar fasciitis - with a view to strengthening the arch of the foot as the main purpose. Then the latter can take the pressure away from the tendon plate (plantar fascia) and structures in the area there.
Tell us when you get a peek through and try these tips, Ragnhild.
My boy is 13 years old and has grown toes together. Nos. 2 and 3 on each foot. Has in the last 2-3 months had very sore foot where these toes are. It has spread up his leg the last 14 days and yesterday he had pain in his fingers. Waiting for referral. But what can this be? Oh, something I can do to make him feel better. It goes very beyond everyday school, etc.
Hi Maylin,
Do you mean that he has significant 'swimming skin' between his toes (more than usual) - or do you mean that his toes have physically healed completely?
We would recommend that you have a diagnostic imaging of the problem in the first instance - your GP can help you with a quick referral to it (an X-ray can be taken within a few days if you receive a referral from a chiropractor, therapist or doctor).
Hello. A couple of years ago, I hit my right big toe hard on the side / bottom. It is now painful to step down and not good with shoes on either. Soft shoes with good soles obviously help something. It murmurs pretty much all the time. Sleeps at night 🙂
Anything you can recommend?
Hi Ove,
1) Have you noticed if there is a bone growth on the inside of the big toe? As seen at diagnosis Hallux valgus?
2) Regarding recommendations, we would recommend
A) Biomechanical examination by a physiotherapist, chiropractor or manual therapist - incorrect postures in the ankles, tight or dysfunctional muscles in the foot / ankle / leg or even the hip can contribute to incorrect loading in the foot / toes.
B) Custom shoes and soles for proper stepping.
C) Exercise and stretching - as shown here . Have you tried such exercises and stretching before?
Hi! In recent months, the toes have curled at least 2-3 times, and the pain is quite large. It is usually the left foot that it goes over, but if I try to get up, about 5 minutes after it has subsided, it comes back even stronger.
I can lie completely flat on the sofa, or clean a little, then it's coming. I may have inherited some gout from my mom, but does it have any background for why my toes curl? I am deficient in vitamin D and B vitamins and take the tablets when I remember to take them. When the toes curl, I apply Voltarol, to reduce the pain, but after 1 hour they are back. What should I do to prevent my toes from curling so often? Greetings a 15 year old girl.
Hi Elisabeth,
It sounds like you are describing muscle cramps in the foot - which also causes the toes to curl. Such muscle cramps can i.a. due to lack of vitamins and minerals (often vitamin D, B6, potassium and magnesium) electrolyte deficiency or dehydration etc.
1) Have you been diagnosed with diabetes?
2) Mtp that you are 15 years old .. do you wear flat, bad shoes, type Converse (sorry for any stereotypical prejudices there!)?
3) Have you ever injured your foot?
4) What about training, are you active and do exercises / sports?
Please number your answers.
Feel free to try these measurese.
Regards.
Nicolay v / Vondt.net
1) No, I have not been diagnosed with diabetes.
2) Rarely uses converse.
3) Yes, stretched a tendon in my left foot, about 2-3 years ago, but the pain returns.
4) Train occasionally.
Hi, my daughter has a sore left big toe. Only hurts when she stands on it or walks. She has not stretched or kicked in anything, and her toe is not red or shows signs of any pain! Hoping for a quick response!
Hi God,
Considering that it only hurts when she is standing or walking on it, there is a high chance that it is congestion related. Has she, now that spring is here again, been on some jogging trips in the days before this happened, for example? Or something else that may have put a high strain on the big toe?
Regards.
Nicolay v / Vondt.net
Has pain in the other toe on the right foot. Stinging / tingling and fighting pain. Duration varies from 30 seconds to 5 minutes. A stitch or series. Think most have come when I sit. It hurts so much that I jerk my foot and say au.
Hi Else Karin,
This sounds like either very tight muscles in the sole of the foot and / or calf - which in turn causes cramps in the muscles. Good advice would be to stretch the foot, calf and use massage against the foot muscles. It can be helpful to get some treatments from clinicians to overcome the problem. Feel free to go for a walk after receiving treatment.
It can also be due to irritation of the sciatic nerve which refers to pain against the foot / toes.
Sincerely,
Nicole v Vondt.net
My two little toes get swollen, red and very sore if they wear shoes, for example a whole night, even if I just sit still. This applies to sneakers and other good shoes, for example, and it does not get significantly worse if I walk. The other toes are not affected by this.
Regards Sigrun S.
Hi Sigrun,
Based on what you describe, this may be a case of hallux valgus (crooked big toe) that presses against the other toes - which in turn leads to most of the load ending up against the little toes.
Since the shoe is then next to the little toes, these have no opportunity to "escape" the pressure from the other toes - and we end up with an irritation.
We recommend trying one hallux valgus support when wearing shoes. This can lead to a more correct load.
Regards.
Nicolay v / Vondt.net
Hello.
Desperate for pain in toes and Achilles. I have repeatedly been to the doctor due to joint pain. But do not get any particular answer. My toes look like I've frozen them and then they thaw. Or that someone is hammering on them. Especially both big toes, but also have pain in the other toes. Knows pulsation. Not the swelling in the toes, but the swelling around the ankle (shark claw) Has and hurts in the Achilles / heel. This is especially when I sit down or have gone to bed. When I get up to put my feet down, tears well up.
Then it feels like the Achilles tendon is cracking. But it works out .. have probably had it like this in the last 2-3 years.
(Plagued with sciatica and other joint pain)
Tips on how to take this further would have been nice.
Hello. I have gotten very sore / pain between two toes (the root of the toes 2-3) comes as acute pain. It comes at about 2/3 minute intervals. Terrible pain. The rest of the foot there is no pain. Have diabetes 2. What can be the cause? Feels like electric shock. Regards Oddbjørn
Hi Oddbjørn,
It sounds like characteristic symptoms of Morton's Nevrom. Read more about it via the attached link.
Regards.
Alexander
This may be a little unusual, but have to ask. I have had this on and off for many years. I can step a little wrong, and then often a little too much on the little toe on the left foot and after this get very sore in the little toe for 1-2 days afterwards. It sticks into my foot every time I step on my left foot - and then after about 2 days it goes completely over. What could it be?
Here we need a little more information to be able to answer your question in a good way - we appreciate if you number your answers according to the questions and write as comprehensive as possible (the smallest detail can be important to give the correct diagnosis).
1) Describe the area it hurts in as carefully as possible. Does the pain move at times?
2) Describe how the pain feels. Is it murmuring? Radiant pain? Sharp cuts? Verking? Does the pain occasionally change character and presentation?
3) Have you ever damaged the affected area or the surrounding areas? We are particularly interested in knowing about fractures, fractures, fractures, tendon injuries, ligament injuries and cartilage injuries. If there are several traumas, we ask that you also write which year and how the injury occurred.
4) What type of sport do you do and how often do you train during the week? Have you started a new sport that puts more pressure on the area involved? Do you possibly have a prehistory of sports that may have led to wear and tear or strain injuries in the region?
5) Has any imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray, ultrasound) of the area ever been taken? If so, what did these show? If several surveys have been taken, please mention all of them in turn.
6) What seems to aggravate the pain?
7) What provides pain relief?
8) Have you possibly tried any forms of treatment or self-measures?
We look forward to helping you further on the path to a pain-free everyday life.
Remember to answer the questions with the corresponding number.
Ps - If desired, we also appreciate if you want to follow and like our FB page.
Hello. I get sudden intense pain in the little toe, without any activity. It's not all the time but it only comes suddenly when I sit completely still to hurt incredibly. What could it be?
Hi! I have had completely stiff toes on my left foot for at least a year. Can not move them. Nice and numb feeling. If I wear sneakers and other closed shoes, it feels like little toes. Taken MRI of back and hips. Can not find signs of cause from there.
Hi! I have had problems with my right big toe all my life. Will not use the word pain, but it tingles violently. Especially when I have to concentrate. The tingling increases with fatigue in the evening, which in turn means that it takes a long time before I fall asleep. From school I remember that I had my leg on the desk on my big toe to reduce tingling. In the winter, I often stood out in the snow with my bare feet as long as I could before bedtime. I felt it helped a little for a short while. I think that part of the reason lies in poor blood circulation since both hands and feet get cold easily. No external signs indicating that something may be wrong. I am 66 years old now and have tried a lot of different things over the years. Several general practitioners I have mentioned what are called "restless legs" and that it has nothing to do with. I consulted a homeopath who was pretty sure he could help me. Contacted another clinic and had many treatments there (about 1 year) without result. Also tried acupuncture over a longer period to get better blood circulation. Nothing has helped so far and I have more or less given up
Sincerely
Magne
Hi Magne,
You are right that your symptoms agree well with what is called Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) - but it can also be Burning Feet Syndrome (aka Grierson-Gopalan syndrome).
Do you sweat a lot on your feet? Do you have any problems with vision in addition to your ailments in your toes?
has for some years struggled with pain in the three middle toes of both feet. This is a burning and stinging pain that hurts terribly. This only comes when I walk and walk over when I take off my shoes. What could be the cause? Regards Reidun.
Hi Reidun,
It may sound like Morton's Nevrom.
Sincerely,
Nicolay
Hi! I have a question I wonder if you can help me with. This applies to the fourth toe on both feet, but mostly on the left foot. It's under my toe and it feels like it's a tendon or something that moves back and forth sometimes when I'm active. This hurts terribly and it most often occurred in football boots or work shoes. Do you know what this could be? Have had the problem for a little over a year now.
Regards
Steffen Henriksen
I have problems with sore big toes when I go long walks or hiking marches. Wear sneakers when there is bare ground on the ground or shoes with spikes in the winter to avoid slipping on the ice.
At night, the big toe can suddenly be pulled up in an almost vertical position and it is not possible to force it or hold it down. It's painful, but goes away after a while. I have cramps on the front of my left leg almost every night and I have to get up and stand and massage, but it has to go away on its own. I have had this for years and it is very bothersome. Wish there was something I could do to end the torment. I eat magnesium and drink milk. Exercise strength and fitness twice a week. Got diabetes 2 in 2/2015. Is slim and light in the body. Takes 16 diabetes tablets and 2 blood pressure tablet daily.
Pain in the little toes (both legs), especially at night. This has persisted for years. Have problems with the meniscus in both legs, even think this has a connection, when a few years ago I got better in one leg after meniscus surgery. Squeeze nerves? What am I doing?
Pain in the right big toe, this is something that comes and goes. But now it's extra bad. Not swollen, just terribly painful to walk. When I wear sneakers, I do not notice anything. A few years ago, a soda can fell on my toe and it resulted in swelling and bruising on the joint of the big toe. Was not at the doctor's then. Could I have been harmed by it? And is there anything to do with it now?
A 9-year-old boy has had pain in both feet for as long as he has been able to walk. The pain is in the big toes of both legs. Spreads out in the foot and up the legs towards the knees when it is really bad. The pain usually comes in the evening and often after he has gone to bed. He gets paracetamol / ibux for the pain which helps a lot. We also took an MRI of the lower back that did not show anything abnormal with regard to the nerves - and also an X-ray of the feet. He is flatfooted and he has now been referred for investigation. Can these pains he has and has had almost all his life come from the flat foot? He also has overactive muscles in both his thighs. Very stiff front and little muscle in the buttocks. Tried to train this with physiotherapy for over a year without improvement.
Hi Mari, The flatfoot problem could certainly be a biomechanical factor that contributes to his pain. But still, there is a bit of a grind here (also considering that a whole year of training with a physiotherapist did not have much effect), and I therefore wonder if an MRI of the feet has been taken (not just a regular x-ray)? Does the pain occur every day - or does he have pain-free periods as well?
With best regards,
Nicolay