Stiff Big Toe (Hallux Rigidus)
What Is Stiff Big Toe (Hallux Rigidus)?
Stiff Big Toe or Hallux rigidus is an arthritic condition characterized by stiffness and rigidity of the big toe.
Arthritis of the foot commonly occurs at the big toe base. The condition can be quite painful as the big toe has to bend with every step you take. This disorder can be very troubling and even disabling since we use the big toe whenever we walk, stoop down, climb up or even stand.
Hallux refers to the big toe, while rigidus indicates that the toe is rigid and cannot move. Hallux rigidus is actually a form of degenerative arthritis.
Who are Affected By Stiff Big Toe?
Stiff Toe or Hallux Rigidus usually occurs between 30 and 60 years of age. It may be more common with certain types of foot anatomy which place more stress on the big toe joint. Hence, the toe becomes stiff and walking is painful.
Symptoms of Hallux Rigidus
Pain is present at the base of the first toe especially when pushing off as you walk. It may be associated with swelling around the joint, a bony bump on the top portion of the foot as well as rigidity and inability to bend the toe.
If you find that your toe is painful and stiff causing you to bear weight on the outside of your foot, you might be suffering from hallux rigidus.
It is recommended that you get it evaluated during the initial stages of the disease before any bone spurs develop.
Non Surgical Treatment for Hallux Rigidus
Many cases can be effectively treated with conservative therapy where your doctor advises sufficient rest, use of ice packs and elevation of the affected leg to reduce inflammation.
Treatment for Hallux Rigidus may include:
- Pain medication - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can relieve some pain or discomfort associated with Bursitis (ibuprofen or naproxen)
- Changing Footwear - Changing your shoe to one with a broader toe area and a stiff or rocker-bottom sole may help reduce pressure on the toe.
- Orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices may improve foot function.
- R.I.C.E. To reduce the pain and swelling surrounding the injured area.
- Rest: Rest the affected area as more damage could result from putting pressure on the injury.
- Ice: Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every two to three hours during the day. Never place ice directly over the skin.
- Compression: Wrapping with an elastic bandage or an elasticated tubular bandage can help to minimize the swelling and provide support to the injured area.
- Elevation: Elevating the injured area above heart level will also help with swelling and pain
Pausing athletic activity until the symptoms have faded.
Surgical Treatment for Stiff Big Toe
If these non-surgical treatment modalities do not provide relief, then surgeon will discuss your surgical options which may include:
- Cheilectomy: Removal of bone spurs as well as a small portion of the bone from the foot to allow more toe movement. It is usually recommended in mild forms of the disease.
- Arthrodesis: Fusing the toe to the foot. It is usually recommended if the cartilage is severely eroded and movement of the toe is very painful.
- Arthroplasty: Replacement of the metatarsophalangeal joint with an artificial one. It is usually performed in older patients with few functional demands.
What if Hallux Rigidus goes Untreated?
If left untreated Big Toe often progresses and can result in the big toe joint 'freezing' and have no motion at all, this is termed Hallux Rigidus.
The base of the big toe, home to a large joint, is the most common site of arthritis in the foot. It is the joint that is actively bending when you walk.
