it could be a bunion they can cause pain in the joint of the toe. i have them on my big toes minor ones from my toes dislocating sometimes over the years. mine dont really hurt but according to my foot doc they can cause pain. over the age of 30 the pain is more common
Have you been tested for Gout? A build up of uric acid crystals collect in the joints especially of the toe. Very painful, could be swollen also. If you eat a lot of protein the acid will build up. Could be Arthritis or other joint disorder. Have you tried a podiatrist(foot doctor)?
have they checked your uric acid levels? If it is high, it could be gout.