I am having similar symptoms to this and I thought it may be gout. Is Big Toe Arthritis the same thing you're referring to, gout? The symptoms match and the risk factors. Isn't gout a part of arthritis and what was your diagnosis? I haven't seen the doctor yet but have a regular scheduled appointment next week. I've been following a diet approach with yogurt, cherry juice and lots of water, no red meat. I've had the burning, pin prick stabbing pain with such tenderness I can't touch it. Using heat and ice. Last night my whole foot was swollen.