Pain in the big toe can affect your daily activities and foot function. Injuries like turf toe, a sprain often seen in athletes and dancers, can lead to joint pain and swelling when the big toe is forcefully bent upwards. Certain chronic conditions also play a role in causing big toe pain. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause joint stiffness and discomfort due to cartilage breakdown, often worsened by repetitive movements or previous injuries. Gout, a metabolic condition where uric acid crystals accumulate in the joint, and causes intense pain and inflammation in the big toe, especially during flare-ups. Bunions, a structural deformity, push the big toe toward the other toes, causing visible bumps and pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Sesamoiditis, involving small bones under the big toe joint, commonly affects people who engage in activities that put pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist can diagnose these issues and recommend specific treatment, including orthotics to reduce strain and even surgery in severe cases. If big toe pain is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Chronic foot pain in the elderly is a common issue that can significantly impact mobility, balance, and quality of life. Several factors contribute to this pain, including conditions like diabetes, osteoarthritis, and obesity. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy and poor circulation, while osteoarthritis causes joint stiffness and discomfort. Obesity adds extra pressure on the feet, making existing conditions worse. Symptoms of chronic foot pain often include persistent aching, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing for long periods. These issues can lead to a decreased activity level, further impacting overall health. A podiatrist can assess the underlying causes of foot pain through a comprehensive examination and diagnostic tests. Treatment options may include custom orthotics, targeted exercises, medication for pain relief, and lifestyle changes to manage weight. For those with diabetes, regular foot care is important to prevent serious complications. If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for tailored treatment and support.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thick, leading to fissures or splits. This condition is often caused by prolonged standing, wearing open-backed shoes, or dry weather. Other contributing factors include obesity, which increases pressure on the heel pad, and skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. While cracked heels may seem like just a cosmetic issue, they can become more serious if left untreated. Deep fissures can cause pain, bleeding, and increase the risk of infection, especially if dirt or bacteria enter the cracks. For individuals with diabetes or circulation problems, cracked heels can lead to complications, including ulcers. If you have cracked heels that become painful, or show signs of infection, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Granite State Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Manchester and Bedford, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.