Have you ever experienced a nagging pain in your toes but couldn’t quite pinpoint the source? You’re not alone. Many people come to our office with toe pain, often suspecting an ingrown toenail when the real culprit lies hidden between the toes.

In this post, Advanced Foot Care of NJ will shed light on common yet overlooked causes of toe pain and offer simple solutions for relief.

The Case of the Mistaken Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails are a frequent cause of toe pain, but they’re not the only ones. Sometimes, the pain originates from a different source, making accurate diagnosis crucial. What many people don’t realize is that the spaces between our toes are prime real estate for painful sores to develop, particularly corns and ulcers.

Corns and Ulcers: The Hidden Source of Pain

Corns and ulcers are common foot problems that frequently occur between the toes, especially when there is pressure from adjacent toes rubbing together.

Corns: These are areas of thickened, hardened skin, often caused by friction and pressure. They can be quite painful, especially when pressed upon.
Ulcers: These are open sores that can develop due to persistent rubbing or pressure. Ulcers are more serious than corns and carry a risk of infection.

Why the Mystery? The Difficulty of Seeing Between Toes

One of the main reasons these conditions go unnoticed is simple: it’s hard to see between your toes! Unless you’re exceptionally flexible, inspecting these areas can be a challenge. This is why many individuals don’t realize they have a corn or ulcer until it becomes significantly painful.

Risk of Infection:

The warm, moist environment between the toes is a breeding ground for bacteria.

If a corn or ulcer becomes infected, you may experience increased pain, redness, swelling, and even drainage.
In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bone, a serious complication known as osteomyelitis.
Individuals with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to infections and should seek prompt treatment for any foot sores!

Seek Professional Help for Your Toes!

If you’re experiencing pain in your toes, don’t try to self-treat. Take a close look between your toes, or ask someone to help you. Avoid using over-the-counter products on any open sores! Instead, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. We can remove corns safely, recommend custom orthotics or toe spacers, and try other remedies as needed.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!