Pain around the big toe joint can make walking uncomfortable and may limit movement in the
forefoot. The big toe joint plays a key role in propulsion during walking and running, helping the
body move forward during each step.
When this joint becomes irritated, stiff, or overloaded, pain may develop around the base of the
big toe.
People experiencing big toe joint pain may notice:
Symptoms may worsen during activity or when wearing certain types of footwear.
Pain around the big toe joint may develop due to several conditions including
At Absolute Footcare, big toe joint pain is assessed through a gait and biomechanical
assessment.
This assessment evaluates how the forefoot functions during walking and whether abnormal
loading patterns are affecting the big toe joint.
We also use a Footscan pressure plate system to assess pressure distribution across the
forefoot.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified during your assessment.
Possible treatments may include:
If you are experiencing ongoing foot pain, the best first step is to book a gait and biomechanical
assessment so the underlying cause can be identified.