What can cause big toe pain?

Many things: There are a number of things that can cause pain in the big toe. This is a very nonspecific symptom. I recommend that someone with sharp pain in the feet should be seen by orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon for a definitive diagnosis. One in your area can be found at www.Aofas.Org.

Many possibilities: Your pain could be as a result of many different things. A thorough history and physical exam and possibly some laboratory and radiology exams are needed to determine the exact cause. Causes of pain may include: trauma (fracture, sprain, arthritis), infection (ingrown nails), metabolic conditions (gout), musculoskeletal or biomechanical abnormality and neurologic conditions (neuropathy).