Question
QUESTION: Hi, sometimes when I put too much static pressure on my left big toe (standing on it while leaning forward), the big toe sort of cramps up.  The pain is similar to a cramp except it doesn't go away for 3-4 days, and then it resembles more of a stub/sprain. There is slight swelling on the outside of the toe.  What do you think this is?  Is it possible that my big toe is so vulnerable to sprains that it happens just by standing on it?  I'm an active athlete and it never occurs during my workouts, only randomly when I stand on it.  Thanks in advance!

ANSWER: This Chicago & Elmhurst Podiatrist says.......

Dear Peter,
Sounds like you may have some hallux limitus. It is a form of a bunion that has limited toe movement upwards. Compare with the other side-but the big toe should be able to make a 65-90 degree angle with the metatarsal for "normal" motion. Check out our website AnkleNFoot.com for examples of bunions on "click where it hurts".
Go see a good Board Certified Podiatrist if the symptoms continue. Your options are orthotics, physical therapy or cortisone injection.If the bump is growing-maybe surgery to fix.
Hope This Helps
Good Luck!

Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
BabyFootDoc.com

DISCLAIMER:
This information is offered as free advice and as general information. It may not be applicable to the specific questioner and his/her problem.  It is not based on actual knowledge of the questioner or his/her medical history and it cannot and should not be relied upon as definitive medical opinion or advice.  Reliable medical opinion and advice can only be obtained through hands-on physical contact and exam of the patient to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  No doctor/patient relationship is created or established here and may not be inferred through answers on this site.  The questioner and other readers must consult his/her own doctor before proceeding or implementing any suggestions contained within this document and answers on this site.  The questioner is only to act upon his/her own doctor抯 orders and recommendations. By reading this posting which follows, the reader fully understands and confirms that he/she holds harmless this writer. If this is not fully agreeable to you, the reader, and/or you have not attained the age of 18 years, you hereby are advised to read no further

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: hmm, just to clear up the question, the first joint of the big toe is cramped/sprained, not the joint connecting the toe to the foot.  The second joint seems to be normal, bending upwards around 90 deg

Answer
This Chicago & Elmhurst Podiatrist says.......

Dear Peter,
Sorry-Not seeing you in person
Similar answer. There may be some arthritis or spur in the toe joint are that sets off the cramp.The flexor hallucis longus tendon of the foot is directly below the big toe bones. When you put pressure on that area it probably irritates the tendon and or joint. Similar treatment also-orthotics, physical therapy or cortisone injection.If the bump is growing-maybe surgery to fix.
A foot x-ray by a podiatrist would probably give you the diagnosis. They usually read the x-rays on the spot.
Hope This Helps
Good Luck!

Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
BabyFootDoc.com

DISCLAIMER:
This information is offered as free advice and as general information. It may not be applicable to the specific questioner and his/her problem.  It is not based on actual knowledge of the questioner or his/her medical history and it cannot and should not be relied upon as definitive medical opinion or advice.  Reliable medical opinion and advice can only be obtained through hands-on physical contact and exam of the patient to establish an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.  No doctor/patient relationship is created or established here and may not be inferred through answers on this site.  The questioner and other readers must consult his/her own doctor before proceeding or implementing any suggestions contained within this document and answers on this site.  The questioner is only to act upon his/her own doctor抯 orders and recommendations. By reading this posting which follows, the reader fully understands and confirms that he/she holds harmless this writer. If this is not fully agreeable to you, the reader, and/or you have not attained the age of 18 years, you hereby are advised to read no further