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Big Toe Arthritis (Hallux Rigidus)

Big Toe Arthritis (Hallux Rigidus)

Big toe arthritis that is known as Hallux rigidus means “tight big toe”. In fact “tight big toe” is the main sign of the disorder. This disease is a kind of deterioration of arthritis. That’s why it is named “big toe arthritis.”
This disorder causes ache and stiffness in the metatarsophalangeal joint. In fact MTP is the joint where the big toe meets the foot.

This condition is a progressive one. It means the condition may get worse after a while. In some cases patients realize that it doesn’t get much worse than when it began. But in other cases, the ache and stiffness get worse.

Causes

Although no clear cause exists, hallux rigidus likely expands as the toe joint experiences much pressure while walking.
Causes of hallux rigidus:

  • excessive use of the joint. Especially in workers and athletes that put pressure in the joint.
  • Injuries. Especially accidentally kicking the toe or twisting the joint.
  • Genetics. People with hallux rigidus might inherit it.
  • Osteoarthritis. Joint inflammation because of wearing and tearing on the joint.
  • Suffering from inflammatory diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Symptoms and signs of hallux rigidus

As it mentioned above, the main sign is feeling pain in the big toe, particularly when pushing off while walking.
Other symptoms:

  • Decreasing the toe’s motion gradually. Therefore walking or standing will be painful
  • Feeling worse pain and hardness in cold weather
  • Inflammation of the toe join

Diagnose

Hallux rigidus can be diagnosed by checking the toe joint’s motion. Doing an X-ray test will display any abnormalities or bone spur growth.

Treatment of hallux rigidus in Dubai

Non Surgical treatment of hallux rigidus are:

Wearing suitable shoes. Wearing shoes with sufficient space for the toes. Do not wear high heels
Restricted toe motion. Putting pads in the shoe causes limited motion of the big toe. Do not take part in activities that pressure the toe joint, like jogging
Taking medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine will relieve pain and decrease swelling
Injections. Injection of corticosteroids might help relieve ache

In case that conservative approaches aren’t enough, surgery may be essential.