What are the common symptoms and signs of big toe arthritis?

Written in association with: Mr Shelain Patel
Published:
Edited by: Conor Lynch

In one of our latest medical articles below, Mr Shelain Patel, a highly respected consultant foot and ankle surgeon, provides an all-you-need-to-know guide with regards to big toe arthritis.

What are the common symptoms and signs of big toe arthritis?

Common presentations are pain and swelling in the big toe joint which is otherwise known as the MTP joint. Pain can limit activities, whilst swelling may interfere with wearing close fitting shoes. Arthritis can also lead to stiffness, and this means initial ‘push-off’ when walking becomes more difficult and changes the way a patient walks.

 

One sign of big toe arthritis is a continuous hard swelling which is tender to touch. This particularly noticeable on the top of the big toe joint and relates to bone spurs.

 

What are the causes and risk factors associated with developing arthritis in the big toe?

In most cases, there is probably some history of trauma. It may not even be something that a patient recalls, but either stubbing the toe badly or being trodden on has disturbed the lining of the joint and led to wear and tear. It may take many years though for it to become evident. Other causes could be inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, or crystal arthropathies such as gout

 

How is big toe arthritis diagnosed, and what are the available treatment options?

The diagnosis is made after a triple assessment of history, examination, and imaging. Most of the time, a good history and examination will identify the problem and imaging such as X-rays or MRI helps define what treatment is needed.

 

Options are variable and range from conservative solutions such as changes in footwear and lifestyle activities, to invasive techniques that include injections. Once these fail, or if the arthritis is too severe, it may be that an operation is all that can be offered.

 

Is surgery necessary for big toe arthritis, and what are the surgical procedures involved?

Surgery is only necessary if symptoms cannot be controlled in any other way. Surgical options vary widely but range from shaving extra bone away, to replacing parts of the joint, to fusing the joint.

 

What can patients do to manage big toe arthritis symptoms and maintain foot health in the long term?

Once arthritis sets in, it is important to be aware that careful management can minimise symptoms in most patients. Often being sensible with footwear, avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms and taking simple painkillers will be all that is needed. However, specialist input is suggested when those measures fail.

 

If you wish to make an appointment with Mr Shelain Patel, you can do so via his Top Doctors profile.

By Mr Shelain Patel
Orthopaedic surgery

Mr Shelain Patel is a seasoned consultant orthopaedic foot and ankle surgeon based in London. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, he's become a trusted expert in his field. Mr Patel's areas of expertise include achilles tendon problemsankle replacements, bunions, sports injuries, and flat feet.
 
Mr Patel received his MBBS degree from University College London in 2003. He furthered his qualifications with an MRCS from the Royal College of Surgeons in 2007 and a Diploma in Sports and Exercise Medicine from the Faculty of Sports and Exercise Medicine in 2008. In 2016, he was awarded the FRCS (Tr&Orth) from the Royal College of Surgeons of England. In addition to his areas of expertise, he's also skilled in dealing with specific concerns such as ankle tendonitis, traumatic injuries, ankle fusion, and ankle instability.
 
Mr Patel's professional experience is extensive. He currently practises privately at several esteemed institutions, including the Princess Grace Hospital’s Outpatients and Diagnostic Centre at 30 Devonshire Street (HCA Healthcare), the Spire Bushey Hospital, the Outpatients & Diagnostics Centre Elstree (HCA Healthcare), and The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital Private Care Unit.

In addition to his clinical work, Mr Patel is also dedicated to advancing medical knowledge, contributing as a reviewer for orthopaedic journals. His commitment to research has earned him recognition through awards like the BOSTAA Travelling Fellowship and the Thomas Arno Fund Grant. He has been principal and chief investigators for various studies related to foot and ankle surgery.

Mr Patel is an active member of professional organisations such as the British Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, the European Foot and Ankle Society, and the Royal College of Surgeons of England. Patients seeking expert care for foot and ankle conditions can rely on Mr Shelain Patel's wealth of experience and dedication to excellence in orthopaedic surgery.

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