I have a painful bump on the side of my big toe

A bunion is a bump or lump at the base of the big toe. Arthritis in the big toe joint (hallux rigidus) can produce a bunion-like lump on the top of the joint (dorsal bunion). The arthritic bump (osteophyte) of hallux rigidus is a spur of bone which blocks movement and is usually accompanied by a stiff, aching big toe joint. Osteophytes can become extremely large and ulcerate the skin, even if the joint is not particularly painful.

The term 'bunion' is usually reserved for a side bump resulting from the big toe angling towards the second toe (hallux valgus). This bump is caused by the base of the big toe projecting sideways as the toe itself tilts in the opposite direction pushing against the second toe (index toe). The index toe can lift and the big toe cross beneath it. Painful callosities form beneath the ball of the index and middle toes, which can become increasingly clawed. Large bunions of any type can ulcerate the skin. Gout or rheumatoid arthritis may also cause joint inflammation.

 

The following list is a summary of some symptoms you may have. For full assessment and treatment of your particular problems, please contact us.

I have...

• suffered a sporting injury.

• a painful bump on the side of my big toe.

• pain and/or a lump in my heel.

• an ankle injury that's not improving.

• a weak ankle.

• ankle pain and/or stiffness.

• flat arches or a collapsed foot.

• painful toes.

• pain in the ball of my foot.

• an in-growing toenail.

• a stiff or painful big toe joint.

• pain and/or stiffness in the midfoot.

• clawed or curly toes.

• pain in my forefoot.

• pains in my shin.

• a lump on my foot.