Recurring toe pain and swelling at same spot. x ray shows no fracture. pain and swelling reduces after taking ibuprofen. recurs every 2-3months.

Could be: Many possibilities, have you had an mri. Likely tedonitis but could be arthritis etc.

Good you get relief: It is good you find relief, and i understand that you still hope to resolve it more permanently. It might be good to see a podiatrist to recommend different footwear or exercises or other foot issues that don't show on x-ray. Other ideas might include chiropractor and acupuncture. Best wishes.

Possible gout: Recurring swelling and pain in your toe with no trauma could be gout. See your physician for a check-up.

You did not state : Which toe. If it is the large toe, in addition to gout, i would examine for presence of hallux limitis, and also an arthritic condition...

Toe pain: A bit more information is in order. But gout is a good start. Chronic tendonitis , hallux limitus if it's the big toe are possible , too. You need to see your podiatrist