What is the difference between arthritis in the big toe joint and gout? I have intense, intermittent pain in that area that is worse with activity and apparently with damp weather. The joint is larger than a year ago but doesn t seem to change in color or other appearances during pain bouts. It s only on my right toe joint where the toe meets the foot. I can barely bend it. Sometimes the pain is excruciating but only lasts a few seconds at a time. How can I tell the diagnosis,please? Thank you.