Hallux Rigidus
Hallux Rigidus, “stiff big toe,” is a commonly occurring condition of degenerative arthritis (a wearing out of surfaces) affecting the MTP joint, the large joint at the base of the great (big) toe, the hallux. The condition results over time from constant wear and stress or from an injury to the joint. The result of the condition is pain, swelling, and/or restriction of movement; eventually the patient will stop bending the joint when transferring weight to the other foot, as in walking or running. Women will probably have to stop wearing shoes with high heels.
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In most cases, there is no definite cause of this condition. Because of the tremendous stress put on this small joint over time (a force equal to twice one’s body weight), eventually the joint simply begins to wear out. It can affect fairly young people, even as young as teenagers.
Treatment:
As a form of degenerative arthritis, treatment begins with anti-inflammatory medication.
Other conservative treatments include:
Special shoes that reduce the amount of bend in the toe while walking or thick-soled shoes
Shoes with a larger toe box
Rest and ice
Use of a toe spacer between the great and second toe
Stretching of the foot
Avoid high heels
Watch your weight
Treatment:
As a form of degenerative arthritis, treatment begins with anti-inflammatory medication.
Other conservative treatments include:
Special shoes that reduce the amount of bend in the toe while walking or thick-soled shoes
Shoes with a larger toe box
Rest and ice
Use of a toe spacer between the great and second toe
Stretching of the foot
Avoid high heels
Watch your weight