Diagnosed 7 years ago with 'significant degenerative changes' in big toe, 'complete loss of joint space seen' and 'prolific osteophyte formation'. 'mild hallux valgus'. No gout. I have managed to carry on almost as normal since then - obviously very careful about shoe choice - deep / wide toe bed etc, which has always been the case. But within the past few months the hard lump on the top of my big toe has risen and seems to be filled with fluid. Online NHS podiatry referred me to GP, who referred me to online NHS physio, who is referring me to orthopaedics at hospital - so probably a long wait. No infection - it's not painful unless I wear shoes, when it turns red from the pressure, not from infection. I do a lot of walking and some exercise classes and have tried the rest, ice etc for ages with no improvement. Just wondered if any gransnetters had experienced anything similar and could give advice about possible treatment? I want to avoid surgery. Suggestions on the internet are for a steroid injection but apparently this can make it worse.
Thank you Pipin for everything.
