Symptoms
Hallux rigidus is an ailment of the joint found at the base of the big toe. It causes discomfort and stiffness in the joint. With this condition, it gets more difficult to bend your toe as time progresses. This disorder is essentially a type of degenerative arthritis.
In its first stage, when movement of the big toe is only slightly restricted, the condition is known as hallux limitus. However, as the issue develops, the toe’s variety of motion steadily decreases until it theoretically reaches the end stage of rigidus, in which the big toe becomes completely inflexible otherwise known as a frozen joint.
• Pain and stiffness in the big toe throughout use
• Pain and stiffness aggravated by cold, damp weather
• Trouble with physical activities
• Swelling and redness near the joint
• Rigid abnormality of the big toe
Causes
Common reasons of hallux rigidus occurs is defective function and structural abnormalities of the foot that can cause osteoarthritis in the big toe joint. This kind of arthritis—the type that comes from wear and tear—often develops in people who have issues that alter the way their foot and big toe work. In certain people, hallux rigidus is hereditary and is an effect of inheriting a foot type that is likely to developing this ailment. In additional cases, it is associated with overuse, especially amongst people involved in activities or jobs that intensify the strain on the big toe. Hallux rigidus could also occur from getting injured. It also might be caused by inflammatory illnesses like gout.
Hallux Rigidus Treatment
In a lot of cases, early action may avert or delay the need for surgery in the future. Treatment for slight or moderate cases of hallux rigidus might consist of:
• Footwear alterations. Sneakers with a big toe box lessen the pressure on your toe. Specifically altered soles might be recommended as well.
• Orthotic instruments. Custom orthotic instruments might expand foot function.
• Medications. Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, might be suggested to lessen discomfort and inflammation.
• Physical therapy. Ultrasound treatment or other physical therapy modalities might be started to provide provisional relief.
Q: What is the best treatment for hallux rigidus?
A: The pain can be alleviated with physical therapy or medications, but in some cases, if those remedies do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be prescribed by your physician.
Q: Is walking good for hallux rigidus?
A: Yes, walking does help, especially walking uphill because it stretches the calf muscles.
Q: Do stretching or massaging help?
A: Yes, both do help to improve the range of motion.