Pain at the Base of Fingers and Toes: Causes and Concerns

Pain at the base of the finger?

Hello, I have some questions to ask you.
About four to five years ago, I suddenly experienced redness, swelling, and pain in my heel.
Since then, the pain tends to occur before my menstrual cycle.
Recently, I've also noticed pain at the base of my toes and fingers.
I'm not sure why this is happening.
Could you please take the time to answer? Thank you!
Additionally, during a health check-up two years ago, I was informed that I have a small ulcer in my stomach and some degree of gastric ptosis.
Could this be a problem? Does gastric ptosis cause my lower abdomen to appear slightly larger? I am 167 cm tall and weigh 52 kg.
Recently, I often feel numbness in my legs when I sit and then stand up, especially in the evening.
Could this indicate kidney issues or lack of sleep? Thank you for your response.

tiā, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/05/10

Dr. Zeng Guosen reply Internal Medicine

Hello! 1.
Sudden redness, swelling, and pain in the heel may indicate abnormalities such as gout, seronegative spondyloarthritis, or Achilles tendonitis.
If there is accompanying pain in other toes or fingers, it is advisable to consult a rheumatologist for further differential diagnosis.
2.
A small ulcer in the stomach is likely not a perforation; otherwise, hospitalization would have been arranged the same day.
It may just be an ulcer or mucosal damage.
Gastroparesis cannot be visually detected from a person's appearance.
3.
Poor kidney function can lead to poor sleep, but it is less commonly expressed through numbness.
Generally, the most common causes are poor circulation or nerve compression.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Tseng Kuo-Sen, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/05/10

More Info

Understanding pain at the base of fingers and toes can be complex, as there are multiple potential causes that may contribute to such discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing pain in your toes and fingers, particularly at their bases, along with a history of heel pain that correlates with your menstrual cycle. Additionally, you mentioned concerns about a previous gastric issue and symptoms like numbness in your legs when standing up.

Possible Causes of Pain at the Base of Fingers and Toes
1. Inflammatory Conditions: One possible cause of your symptoms could be an inflammatory condition such as arthritis. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis can lead to joint pain and swelling, particularly in the fingers and toes. The cyclical nature of your heel pain related to your menstrual cycle may suggest a hormonal influence on inflammation.

2. Nerve Compression or Neuropathy: The numbness you experience in your legs, especially when standing up, could indicate nerve compression or peripheral neuropathy. Conditions such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or even postural issues can lead to nerve-related symptoms. Morton’s neuroma, which is a thickening of the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes, could also be a consideration if you experience pain between the toes.

3. Tendonitis or Overuse Injuries: If you engage in activities that put stress on your hands and feet, such as sports or repetitive motions, you might be experiencing tendonitis. This condition can cause pain at the base of fingers and toes due to inflammation of the tendons.

4. Circulatory Issues: Poor circulation can lead to numbness and pain in the extremities. If you are experiencing these symptoms primarily at night, it could be related to your sleeping position or underlying vascular issues.

5. Gout: This is a type of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints, often starting at the big toe. If your pain is acute and associated with swelling, gout could be a possibility.

Concerns Regarding Your Gastric Issues
Regarding your gastric health, having a small perforation or a condition like gastric prolapse can lead to various symptoms, including discomfort and potentially affecting your appetite or digestion. While a gastric prolapse can lead to a distended abdomen, it is essential to consult with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They can provide insights into whether your gastric condition could be contributing to your overall symptoms.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Given the complexity of your symptoms, I recommend consulting a rheumatologist for the joint and nerve-related issues, and a gastroenterologist for your gastric concerns. They can perform the necessary tests to diagnose your conditions accurately.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy may help improve your strength and flexibility, particularly if your symptoms are related to overuse or nerve compression.

3. Lifestyle Modifications: Consider evaluating your footwear and any repetitive activities that may exacerbate your symptoms. Proper footwear can alleviate pressure on your toes and heels.

4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any potential triggers. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare providers.

5. Dietary Considerations: If gout is a concern, modifying your diet to reduce purine intake (found in red meats, shellfish, and alcohol) may help manage symptoms.

In summary, the pain at the base of your fingers and toes could stem from various causes, including inflammatory conditions, nerve issues, or overuse injuries. It is crucial to seek professional medical advice for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Your gastric issues should also be addressed to ensure they do not contribute to your overall discomfort.

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