When To Visit A Doctor For Hallux Rigidus
If you have stiffness and pain in your big toe, then it may be caused by a condition called Hallux Rigidus, or otherwise referred to as arthritis in the big toe joint. The treatment of this condition can include physiotherapy or inductions to reduce the inflammation to the area. There are cases where minor surgery may be required to improve movement in this joint. The sooner that this condition is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat. If you have any discomfort, pain, or reduced flexibility in the big toe, we recommend contacting us at Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center as soon as possible so we can begin care.
Hallux Rigidus
The joint at the base of your big toe is called the metatarsophalangeal joint. This is where the toe bone joins the metatarsal bone within the foot. So every time you take a step, this joint bends and supports your body weight as it does so. If the joint is not functioning properly, it can make running, walking, playing sports, or almost any other activity more difficult. Depending on the extent of your condition, it may even feel impossible to engage in any sort of physical activity. Hallux Rigidus develops when there is a loss of flexibility in the metatarsophalangeal joint due to arthritis. Our bones are coated with a slippery type of cartilage that allows for smooth movement. If this cartilage gets worn away, the exposed bone becomes more rough and can develop bony lumps. As a result, this leads to stiffness and pain in the toe joint.
There are many symptoms of Hallux Rigidus to watch out for. If there is swelling and inflammation around the joint, you have difficulty wearing shoes due to pressure on the joint, your hips or lower back are compensating for the lack of ability in your foot, or there is pain and stiffness in the joint, then we recommend speaking with our clinic. This condition may have stemmed from overuse, an injury, or structural issues with the foot. Rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also result in Hallux Rigidus. Contact our clinic if you are interested in learning more about our treatment options.
Why Experience Matters When Treating Hallux Rigidus
There are non-surgical and surgical treatments for Hallux Rigidus. We recommend contacting our clinic for the treatment you need. Here are a few reasons why we suggest choosing our team for your foot related care:
- We are a top-rated podiatrist for the Northern VA area, offering advanced solutions so our patients can achieve pain-free feet and ankles.
- It is our mission to provide patient services and health outcomes that are unsurpassed.
- We are committed to excellence, going the extra mile for our patients and ensuring they receive the best care possible.
Our team at Dynamic Foot and Ankle Center are ready to consult with you about your foot condition! We understand this can be stressful to deal with, but the sooner we speak with you, the sooner you can get on a care plan that provides relief. Contact us about Hallux Rigidus treatment today!
