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What Does A Bump On Big Toe Indicate?

Posted on Mon, 21 Apr 2014

Question: I have a bump on my big toe on the left side of the joint in the middle of the toe. It's a bit red and sensitive when pressure is applied or when I kick soccer balls and such. My son seems to have developed one too recently. In an effort to fix it, I've replaced a pair of tight shoes and gotten toe spacers. I think it has improved some. Do you have any insights you can offer me? My son is 7, almost 8. His toe lump is very similar to mine, but I'd love to know if there is anything to know that distinguishes are two situations. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Karl Logan (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Hallux Interphalangeus Detailed Answer: I have a similar bump on my big toe and I've always had it. it does get a little red from time to time but other than that it does not bother me at all. it is called hallux Interphalangeus and it is like a bunion but more distal (more toward the end of your toe) part of the toe. it is a deformity in the Interphalangeal joint of the great or big toe. it is rare for it to be painful or to cause any problems. it's presence is not related to footware and the foot is likely programmed to develop like this. in the rare event that it did cause significant symptoms the joint can be fused straight which would correct the deformity without causing any functional deficit.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Karl Logan (2 hours later)

I haven't always had it, and it is definitely tender. When I coach/play soccer, it hurts quite a bit when I make direct contact on the ball while kicking it. I'll add, I have long toes and that toe knuckle cracks quite often. Btw, I looked more closely at my son's toe and realized it was just a blister bubble. Thankfully, it's just my issue again. Thanks, XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Karl Logan (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer: Hallux interphalageus Detailed Answer: if you could send me a picture of your toe it would help confirm the diagnosis. if it is hallux interphalageus and it is causing your symptoms then you should have an X-ray and see an orthopedic surgeon to discuss treatment. one thing we do say in orthopedics is that it's easier to make the shoe fit the foot than to make the foot fit the shoe!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E