Hallux Rigidus

Dr. Rosenstein,

      I think I may have Hallux Rigidus because I have a bump on my big toe. What Is Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux rigidus is a disorder of the joint located at the base of the big toe. It causes pain and stiffness in the big toe, and with time it gets increasingly harder to bend the toe. "Hallux" refers to the big toe, while "rigidus" indicates that the toe is rigid and cannot move.

Because hallux rigidus is a progressive condition, the toe's motion decreases as time goes on. In its earlier stage, motion of the big toe is only limited, this condition is called hallux limitus. But as the problem advances, the toe's range of motion decreases until it reaches the end stage of rigidus, where the big toe becomes stiff, or a frozen joint. Other problems are also likely to occur as the disorder progresses.

Early signs and symptoms include:

 Difficulty with certain activities (running, squatting)

 Swelling and inflammation around the joint

 Pain and stiffness in the big toe

 Pain aggravated by cold temperatures

 Pain, even during rest

 Difficulty wearing shoes

 Dull pain in the hip, knee, or lower back due to changes in the way you walk

 Limping, in severe cases

If you find it difficult to bend your toe up and down or find that you are walking on the outside of your foot because of pain in the toe, see your doctor right away. Hallux rigidus is easier to treat when the condition is caught early.

In diagnosing hallux rigidus, a foot specialist will examine your feet and bend the toe to determine its range of motion. X-rays are usually required to determine how much arthritis is present and any other abnormalities that may have formed.

If your condition is caught early enough, it is likely to respond to a less aggressive treatment. In many cases, early treatment may prevent or postpone the need for surgery in the future. That's why it is important to see a podiatrist when you first begin to notice symptoms.

For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact Affiliated Podiatrists, Inc. at

440-946-5858 or visit our website: http://www.drrobertrosenstein.com/

And remeber..."When your feet hurt, you hurt all over!"