Red and shiny toes can be a sign of several underlying conditions that affect circulation, skin, or joints. Raynaud’s disease can cause color changes, including redness after cold exposure, along with tingling or numbness. Chilblains may create red, swollen, and shiny patches that feel itchy or tender after exposure to damp or cold conditions. Gout often leads to sudden redness, intense pain, and warmth in the big toe due to inflammation from uric acid buildup. Infections can also cause redness, swelling, and a shiny appearance as the skin becomes irritated or inflamed. A podiatrist can identify the cause, provide proper treatment, and help prevent complications by addressing circulation, skin health, or joint inflammation. If you notice persistent redness or shine on your toes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Desiree Garzon, DPM of County Wide Foot, Ankle, & Wound Care. 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 Boynton Beach, and Wellington, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
