Toe Exostosis

A painful condition of the tip of the toe (usually the first toe) caused by an exostosis (overgrowth of bone) building up under the nailbed. An exostosis occurs at the site of repeated injury, usually from direct blows. This benign overgrowth of bone can be mistaken for a bone tumor.

Body Parts Involved

• Toe (usually the big toe).
• Toenail.
• Soft tissue surrounding the exostosis, including muscles, nerves, lymph vessels, blood vessels and periosteum (covering to bone).

Causes

• Repeated injury to the toes.
• Chronic irritation to an already damaged area.

Signs & Symptoms

• No symptoms for mild cases.
• Extreme pain at the tip of the toe and under the nail.
• Tenderness over the toe.
• Extreme sensitivity in the toe to pressure or minor injury.
• Change in the contour of the bone, ranging from a slight lump to the appearance of a large calcified spur (1cm or more in length) in the toe.
  The toenail may appear distorted.

Treatment

Note:- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.

First Aid

None. This condition develops gradually.

Continuing Care

• Rest the injured area. Use splints or crutches if needed.
• Apply heat frequently. Use heat lamps, hot soaks, hot showers, heating pads, or heat liniments and ointments.
• Take whirlpool treatments, if available.
• Use proper shoes and extra toe padding, if possible, during competition and workouts to avoid recurrence of the injury.

Medication

• Medicine usually is not necessary for this disorder. For minor pain, you may use non-prescription drugs such as aspirin.
• If surgery is necessary, your doctor may prescribe:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to help control swelling.

Stronger pain relievers.

Antibiotics to fight infection.

Home Diet

During recovery, eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs. Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation that may result from decreased activity. Your doctor may suggest vitamin and mineral supplements to promote healing.

Diagnostic Measures

• Your own observation of signs and symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• X-rays of the toes.

Prevention Tips

• Allow adequate recovery time for a toe injury below resuming sports participation.
• Wear adequate protective equipment, especially good shoes and toe padding if necessary, for participation in sports.
• Learn proper moves and techniques for your sport to minimize the risk of injury.