Big Toe Arthritis: First Aid Awareness, Mobility Risks, and Workplace Safety in Canada

Big toe arthritis—often called arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint—is a progressive condition that can significantly affect walking, balance, and weight-bearing. It develops when the smooth cartilage in the joint wears down and bone spurs form, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced motion.

From a first aid and workplace safety perspective, big toe arthritis matters because foot pain can alter gait, increase the risk of slips, trips, and falls, and limit a person’s ability to safely perform standing or walking tasks—common requirements in many Canadian workplaces.

This article is intended for education and safety awareness. It does not replace medical advice or treatment.

Why Big Toe Arthritis Matters for First Aid and Safety

Since daily walking can strain on the big toe joint, anti-inflammatory medications are a vital component of treatment.

The big toe plays a critical role in:

Balance and stability
Push-off during walking
Standing for prolonged periods

When arthritis affects this joint, individuals may:

Walk unevenly to avoid pain
Lose range of motion
Experience flare-ups that limit mobility
Be at higher risk for secondary injuries due to altered movement

First aiders and supervisors should recognize that foot pain is not just discomfort—it can be a safety issue.

What Happens in Big Toe Arthritis?

Big toe arthritis develops as a result of:

Gradual erosion of joint cartilage
Inflammation within the joint
Formation of bone spurs that limit movement

Over time, the joint may become:

Stiff or rigid
Painful during walking or standing
Chronically inflamed, with symptoms that come and go or become constant

As the condition progresses, supportive treatments may become less effective.

Early and Ongoing Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

Pain at the base of the big toe
Stiffness, especially during walking
Reduced range of motion
Swelling around the joint
Pain that worsens with activity or tight footwear

During flare-ups, even short periods of walking can become difficult.

Common Treatment Approaches and Safety Implications

Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Because walking places constant stress on the big toe joint, anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used to reduce pain and swelling.

Important first aid considerations:

These medications relieve symptoms but do not stop disease progression
Effectiveness may decrease as arthritis worsens
Overuse may mask pain, leading individuals to exceed safe activity limits

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections deliver a strong anti-inflammatory directly into the joint and may provide temporary but significant pain relief.

Safety considerations:

Relief may allow improved function in the short term
Repeated injections must be used cautiously, as they may accelerate joint damage

Removal of Bone Spurs

Bone spurs often develop on the top of the joint and can cause pain when pressed by footwear.

Surgical removal can:

Improve comfort
Increase range of motion
Reduce pain from shoe pressure

However:

Bone spurs may return over time
Repeat procedures may be needed

Joint Fusion (Advanced Arthritis)

In advanced cases where the joint is severely damaged, fusion surgery may be recommended.

Key points:

Fusion can permanently relieve pain
The joint will no longer bend
Walking is often still possible, especially if motion was already limited

Many individuals choose fusion when pain severely limits daily or work activities.

First Aid and Workplace Safety Considerations

From a safety perspective, big toe arthritis can affect:

Ability to stand or walk for long periods
Safe use of ladders or uneven surfaces
Reaction time and balance
Footwear compatibility with safety boots

Workplaces may need to consider:

Modified duties
Rest breaks
Supportive footwear policies
Early reporting of foot pain to prevent secondary injuries

Preventing Secondary Injuries

To reduce risk:

Address foot pain early
Avoid ignoring limping or altered gait
Use appropriate footwear with adequate toe space
Modify activities during flare-ups

Understanding musculoskeletal conditions helps prevent falls and overuse injuries.

Educational Disclaimer

This article is provided for general education and first aid awareness only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat arthritis. Persistent or worsening foot pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional.