Why do I have pain in my second toe? 

Pain in the second toe can have many causes, from simple metatarsalgia to capsulitis. In some people, however, and particularly in teenage girls, it could be a sign of an uncommon forefoot issue called Freiberg’s disease. This is actually an injury that isn’t well understood. Something causes the metatarsal head attached to the second toe to begin to break down. Slowly the head flattens out, making it uncomfortable for you to put weight on that part of the foot. You may end up limping when you participate in activities. Often the second toe has a limited range of motion, swelling, and a callus under the ball of the foot.

Conservative and surgical treatment for this condition both exist. The key is getting the condition properly diagnosed. Diagnostic images like X-rays help our physicians see the bone breakdown. From there, we can help you decide on the best possible treatment. Contact Dr. Darren Silvester at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic for more information or an appointment if you have persistent pain under the second toe. You can call our San Antonio, TX, office at 210.375.3318 to reach us.