The big toe is also known as the great toe, and is considered to be one of the most important joints in the body. It has various functions, including walking heel to toe, and balancing while running, jumping, or dancing. There is a joint on the bottom of the big toe that is known as the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint, and the proximal Interphalangeal joint is found across from it. These joints can become damaged from participating in high-impact sporting activities, and will often become painful and swollen. Another form of discomfort occurring in the big toe is known as gout. This develops as a result of excess uric acid in the blood that can form crystals in the joints of the big toe, often causing debilitating pain. Extensor tendonitis is a foot condition that may happen from having tight calf muscles, and the pain is felt when the big toe is extended. Many people have osteoarthritis of the joints in the big toe, and a bunion may gradually develop, if not promptly treated. If you have pain in your big toe, it is strongly urged that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat toe pain.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 contact our offices located in Londonderry, NH and Salem, NH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails are a frequent problem and studies show they tend to affect men more often than women. The nail grows into the skin at the edge, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. While trimming the nail properly, soaking the foot, and wearing wide shoes can bring relief, these conservative steps do not always stop the condition from coming back. For many people, surgical correction offers a more reliable long-term outcome by removing part of the nail or reshaping the nail bed. In addition to wearing tight footwear and improper toenail cutting, ingrown nails may also develop from underlying medical conditions, poor foot hygiene, or even certain medications that alter nail growth. If you struggle with recurring ingrown toenails or notice signs of infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore the most effective treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM of Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. They are usually caused by long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments, excessive walking or running, obesity, or poor footwear. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel when standing up in the morning, aching pain throughout the day, or tenderness when walking or running. Heel spurs may not be visible, but can feel like a stabbing sensation in the heel or a dull ache that worsens with activity. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs through a physical exam and imaging, such as X-rays, to confirm the presence of the bony growth. Treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, stretching exercises, custom orthotics, or, in some cases, surgical removal. Addressing underlying conditions is also important for long-term relief. If you are dealing with ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and effective treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Pasquale Cancelliere, DPM from Candria Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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