Hallux Rigidus

Symptoms often start out mild and slowly worsen over time. Early signs and symptoms may include:

• pain and stiffness in your big toe during use
• swelling and inflammation around the joint
• pain and stiffness that worsens with cold, damp weather As the condition progresses, you may notice:
• pain even during rest
• a hard bump that forms at the top of your foot
• inability to bend your big toe
• limping

For most people, there is no clear cause. Hallux rigidus likely develops because the toe joint experiences a lot of stress when you walk. Every step you take places a force equal to twice your body weight on the toe joint. Other causes of hallux rigidus include:

• Overuse of the joint, such as in workers who stoop or squat or athletes who stress the joint.
• Injuries, such as stubbing the toe or spraining the joint.
• Genetics, since it can run in the family. It may come from inheriting a particular foot type or way of walking that leads to the condition.
• Osteoarthritis, which is joint inflammation due to wear and tear on the joint.
• Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

To relieve pain, your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Appropriate shoes: Wear shoes that have plenty of room for your toes. You may find that shoes with stiff soles relieve pain. Avoid wearing high heels.
• Limited toe movement: Place pads in your shoe to limit movement of your big toe. Avoid activities that stress your toe joint, such as jogging.
• Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can relieve pain and reduce swelling.
• Foot soaks: Try a contrast bath, switching between hot and cold water to relieve inflammation. Place your foot in hot water for 30 seconds, then right away in cold water for 30 seconds.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help relieve pain
• Though in extreme cases may require hallux rigidus surgery.

You can’t keep the condition from happening, but you can slow its progress if you:

• Exercise to keep the joint mobile.
• Rest the joint when you feel pain.
• Wear good-fitting shoes with enough space around the toes.