Pain in big toe joint.

Have had some minor pain/stiffness in the big toe on both sides that is only noticeable when bending the big toe downward or when trying to straighten the big toe from a downturned position while applying resistance with my finger.

Wouldn’t say it’s painful but noticeable and curious on the cause/ ways to mitigate before it gets worse. Seems more noticeable after wearing downturned shoes or a really long day in clilbing shoes. 

My uncle Lester promises to give you feedback if you'll post photos of your feet. 

How much did you downsize your shoes?

I'd strongly suggest going to a podiatrist to get it checked out.  I ignored my toe joint pain for too long and now have permanent damage that is really quite obnoxious in all aspects of life. 

I downsize beteeen 1/2 size and one full size depending on the fit of the shoe. 

Check for gout. It’s a common problem and easily fixed. 

Had the same from years and years of soft shoes. Got so bad it took me out of climbing for a year. Do your self a favor and get some stiffer shoes now before it gets chronic.
i use the butora mantra board lasted . There super stiff and take some getting use to but saved me. You can also try tapping the big toe at the distal joint.

Ted

Literally went to the doctor today about this. Mine seems a little different, but maybe just a little further along. Long story short, doc did an X-ray and its basically the early stages of hallux rigidus probably due to trail running in shoes with too little support. Recommended to wear stiffer shoes, tape the joint to limit mobility when needed, etc. 

Cheapie insole from the running store for non technical footwear helped me too, in addition to the above. I have tight ankles which causes my feet to roll inward a bit and contributes to extra load on that joint, working on the ankles has helped a bit. 

Definitely get a professional's opinion...it sucks.