The big toe joint of the foot is such an important joint. Think about it – it is the joint that bends when we walk forward so that the body pivots over it. Think about what might happen if that joint does not move. It probably going to cause some other problems with walking and hurt.
A condition known as hallux rigidus is when that joint (the first metatarsophalangeal or big toe joint) does on more (ie is rigid). Most often hallux rigidus is due to osteoarthritis of the that joint or there has been a history of trauma. If the joint does not move in hallux rigidus, then the body’s ability to move forward when walking and running becomes harder and more energy is needed. Additionally, as there is no movement in that joint, the body tries to move other joints. This additional movement in those joints can become painful.
The treatment for hallux rigidus is to restore that pivot motion that the joint should have. In hallux rigidus this can only be done in one of two ways – either a rocker has to be placed on the outside of the shoe or a plastic implant has to be placed in the joint. If this fails the only option for hallux rigidus is surgical fusion of the joint at an angle that does allow some rocking or pivoting over the joint.
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