Hallux Rigidus
At A Glance:
A common site of arthritis in the foot is at the base of the big toe. Damage to the cartilage in this area can cause bone formation at the top of the joint that blocks the normal movement, leading to pain and stiffness of the big toe, otherwise known as hallux rigidus. Treatment may include surgery when the hallux rigidus impairs physical activity and movement.
Symptoms
- Pain in the big toe joint, especially when doing physical activity.
- Swelling around the big toe joint
- A bump on the top of the foot.
- Stiffness in the big toe that doesn’t allow bending of the joint
Causes
The potential repeated deep flexion of the toe causing injury of the big toe joint.
Treatment Options
Nonsurgical methods include:
- Pain and anti-inflammation medications.
- Wearing shoes that don’t put pressure on the big toe.
- Orthotics in the shoes that prevent bending of the big toe
If you have tried these methods, still suffer from pain and stiffness that impairs your movement or ability to do physical activity, surgical techniques may be an option for you
Speak to your orthopaedic surgeon about your case and what surgical option may be best suited for you.
Surgical methods of treating hallux rigidus include: