They may be small, but if you’re experiencing pain in your toes we at Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads know it can definitely hinder your activity level and keep you from performing simple daily functions comfortably, like standing, walking and reaching for items on high shelves. Below are some common causes of toe discomfort and how to alleviate them.

Toe Cramps—anyone who has suffered with toe cramps knows how excruciating the pain can be. Although toe cramps do not usually last and should resolve on their own, you may want to consult your Podiatrist if you seem to be afflicted with them frequently. Tracking down the source of toe cramps can be tricky. They can be caused by too much activity or a repetitive action such as pushing off with your big toe for a sport. In this case, try some gentle stretches such as flexing your toes and standing with the balls of your feet and toes on the ground and slowly raising your heels. You might also consider our Carbon Stabilizer Plates for your athletic shoes as they limit the range of motion and immobilize the big toe joint. Other causes of toe cramping include too little physical activity and being low on electrolytes.

Ingrown Toenail—a toenail that grows back into the skin surrounding the nail bed creates an inflammatory response in the toe, causing swelling, pain and tenderness to the touch. Soaking the affected foot in warm water every day and trying to gently massage the nail out of the skin is a good home remedy to attempt. Do not try to cut the nail out or dig the nail edge out with a sharp instrument. This is likely to result in injury and infection. Our All Gel Toe Cap and Gel and Fabric Toe Cap can cushion and protect an ingrown toenail during the healing process.

Hammertoe—a muscle tendon imbalance is the primary culprit of this toe deformity that causes the toe to bend downward at the joint, resembling a hammer. It’s crucial to treat a hammertoe while it is still flexible. Failure to do so can result in the toe becoming rigidly fixed in the bent position. Not only is this very painful, it can lead to corns and blisters. We offer several products that can help keep your toe properly aligned, including One Toe Gel Crest Pad and Budin Splints that can accommodate one or multiple bent toes. 

We offer many products that bring relief from common foot problems. To see our full selection, view our online catalog. All of our products can be easily ordered online. Contact us if you have questions by calling: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723).