Signs and Symptoms of Toe Arthritis
Toe pain due to arthritis is quite common and generally caused by inflammation of the toe joint. While the big toe is usually affected the most, any toe can fall prey to arthritis especially if it has sustained a traumatic injury. Risk factors for toe arthritis include age, weight and a family history of disease. Women who wear tight, high heels are also more susceptible.
Pain, Stiffness and Swelling
Pain is an obvious indicator of toe problems and can manifest itself in a variety of ways including aching, stabbing and soreness. Toes may also experience a lack of flexibility – stiffness caused by cartilage deterioration in the joint. Without cartilage the joint has no cushion or lubrication. Rheumatoid arthritis is a common type of arthritis that causes a loss of synovial fluid. All types of arthritis involve inflammation which can create visible swelling.
Changes in Sound and Appearance
Audible symptoms of arthritis can include clicking and popping noises akin to someone cracking their knuckles. A grinding noise may also be present. These sounds are bad and result from bone on bone contact caused by insufficient cartilage. As cartilage disappears the body responds by producing more bone. Additional bone growth may stabilize the joint but also contributes to deformation and pain. Warmth and redness may also be present.
Locked Joints and Difficulty Walking
When swelling and stiffness come to a peak, they may inflame the joint so much that it is unable to bend. The condition is generally temporary and may require physical manipulation to free it. Pain and joint stiffness can cause difficulty walking and afflicted patients may find themselves changing their gait to avoid sensitivity. This can in turn cause other issues throughout the leg.
Always consult a podiatrist if you experience abnormal pain and suspect you might be experiencing the symptoms of arthritis.
Source
Story, C. (2013, September 27). My aching feet: Symptoms of arthritis in toes. Retrieved from http://www.healthline.com/health-slideshow/arthritis-toes
