Symptoms and Causes of Arthritis in the Toes
Arthritis in the toes is chronic inflammation of the joints in the forefoot. The joint most often affected is the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, which connects the big toe to the rest of the foot. Symptoms of toe arthritis are similar to those of arthritis that affects other joints: tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and pain.
Foot Anatomy and Common Foot Problems
The parts of the foot and its functions are unique but can also contribute to common foot problems. The many bones, ligaments, and tendons of the foot help you move, but they can also be injured and limit your mobility.
Causes of Foot Pain and Treatments
Common causes of foot pain include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, osteoarthritis, bunions, and more. You may find just the top of your foot hurts, or you have one-sided foot pain, or there may be pain and swelling in both feet. These symptoms can point to a specific diagnosis.
Why Your Foot or Ankle Is Swollen and What to Do for It
Swelling in the ankles and feet is a common problem. This swelling is often caused by a buildup of fluid, which is called edema. Edema is common in the feet, ankles, and legs, and often only one ankle is swollen.
Ankle sprain
An ankle sprain is a stretch or tear in one or more of the ankle ligaments. Ankle ligaments are slightly elastic bands of tissue that keep the ankle bones in place. Ankles are particularly prone to sprain because of the small size of the joint and the forces exerted when walking, running and jumping, especially if the surface is uneven.