Hallux rigidus is a type of arthritis in your big toe. It is a form of degenerative arthritis that specifically affects the first metatarsophalangeal joint, or the joint at the base of the big toe.
This condition is characterized by pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the big toe, often caused by bone spurs that develop around the joint. It specifically affects the joint at the base of the big toe where it meets the foot. Learn more about Hallux rigidus.
What Causes Hallux Rigidus
Factors contributing to Hallux rigidus include:
- Overuse
- Injury
- Inflammation
- Genetic predisposition
Common symptoms include pain during activities, especially when pushing off while walking, stiffness in the toe, swelling around the joint, and the development of bunion-like bumps. As a progressive condition, it can worsen over time, leading to significant stiffness and pain that can impede everyday activities.
How to Relieve Hallux Rigidus
Treatment varies based on severity and can range from non-surgical options like shoe modifications, orthotics, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to surgical interventions in more severe cases.
These surgical options may include removing bone spurs, reshaping the bones, or fusing the joint to reduce pain.
- Wear shoes with a wide toe box to reduce pressure on the toe.
- Wear custom orthotic devices to provide support and reduce stress on the toe joint. Over-the-counter arch supports might also be beneficial.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Exercises to maintain joint flexibility and strength can be useful. A physical therapist can provide appropriate exercises and guidance.
- Limiting or modifying activities that exacerbate the condition, like reducing running or impact sports, can be helpful.
- If non-surgical treatments don't provide sufficient relief, surgery might be considered.
How Insoles Help With Hallux Rigidus
Insoles can help treat/ease Hallux Rigidus in the following ways:
- Insoles that have a rigid platform under the big toe joint will help to limit painful movement during walking. This acts as a support structure that helps reduce the strain on the joint when it would normally need to bend during the push-off phase of walking.
- By providing proper arch support, insoles help distribute pressure more evenly across the entire foot rather than concentrating it on the big toe joint. This improved weight distribution pattern can significantly reduce the load on the affected joint, making walking and standing more comfortable.
- The rocker bottom design found in some shoes helps create a smoother forward rolling motion during walking. This design feature effectively reduces the demand on the big toe to flex, allowing for more comfortable movement despite the joint's limited mobility. When combined with the proper insoles, the rocker bottom shoes offer maximum pressure relief on the joint.
- Custom or semi-custom insoles can be specifically designed to address individual foot mechanics and any associated deformities. They can provide targeted support to prevent compensatory issues from developing in other parts of the foot and ankle while also accommodating the hallux rigidus condition.
