Hallux Rigidus (stiff OA of the toe)
Hallux rigidus is a condition that affects the big toe joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Here are some common symptoms of hallux rigidus:
- Pain and stiffness in the big toe joint, especially during activity and after rest
- Limited range of motion in the big toe joint, particularly during upward bending
- Swelling and inflammation around the big toe joint
- A bump or bony growth on top of the big toe joint
- Difficulty walking or running due to pain and stiffness in the big toe joint
If you suspect that you have hallux rigidus, there are some tests you can do at home to assess your symptoms:
- Range of motion test: Sit down and cross your ankle over your opposite knee. Use your hand to gently bend your big toe upward as far as possible. If you have hallux rigidus, you may experience pain and limited movement during this test.
- Joint mobility test: Hold your big toe at the base and gently move it up and down. If you have hallux rigidus, you may feel stiffness and resistance in the joint.
- Pain test: Press down on the top of your big toe joint. If you have hallux rigidus, you may experience tenderness and pain.
It’s important to note that self-diagnosis is not always accurate, and if you suspect that you have hallux rigidus, it’s recommended that you see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What are the possble consequences if I don’t treat my hallux rigidis and have a long-term loss of range of motion?
If left untreated, hallux rigidus can lead to long-term loss of range of motion in the big toe joint, which can result in several consequences. Some possible consequences of untreated hallux rigidus with long-term loss of range of motion include:
- Arthritis: Continued wear and tear on the joint can lead to arthritis, which can cause further pain and stiffness.
- Decreased mobility: Reduced range of motion in the big toe joint can make it difficult to perform daily activities such as walking, running, and even standing for long periods.
- Chronic pain: As the condition progresses, chronic pain in the big toe joint can become more severe, making it difficult to manage with conservative treatments.
- Gait changes: Changes in the way you walk due to hallux rigidus can lead to compensatory movements in other joints, potentially causing pain and dysfunction in other areas of the body.
- Bone spurs: As the body attempts to compensate for the reduced range of motion, it may create bony growths or bone spurs around the affected joint, which can further limit movement and cause pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore function to the affected joint, which can be a more invasive and costly treatment option.
It’s important to seek treatment for hallux rigidus to prevent long-term consequences and maintain proper foot function.
What will my physiotherapist do to help treat my hallux rigidis?
If you have hallux rigidus, a physiotherapist can play an important role in your treatment plan. Here are some common interventions that a physiotherapist may use to help treat hallux rigidus:
- Manual therapy: Your physiotherapist may use hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue massage to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.
- Exercise therapy: Specific exercises can be prescribed to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the affected joint and surrounding muscles.
- Gait analysis: Your physiotherapist may assess your walking and running patterns to identify any compensatory movements or imbalances that may be contributing to your condition.
- Footwear recommendations: Your physiotherapist may suggest changes in footwear, such as shoes with a wider toe box, to reduce pressure on the affected joint.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotics may be prescribed to provide additional support and reduce pressure on the big toe joint.
- Activity modification: Your physiotherapist may recommend modifications to your activities or sports to reduce stress on the affected joint and promote healing.
- Education: Your physiotherapist can educate you on proper foot care and self-management strategies, including ice therapy, stretching, and rest, to manage your symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
Overall, the goal of physiotherapy for hallux rigidus is to improve joint mobility, reduce pain, and restore function to the affected joint, allowing you to return to your normal activities with minimal discomfort.
What are the best 5 exercises I can do at home to imrprove range of motion of my toe with a brief explanation on how to do the exercises.
Here are five exercises you can do at home to improve range of motion in the big toe joint:
- Toe stretches: Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Cross one foot over the opposite thigh and gently pull your toes back towards your shin with your hand. Hold for 10-15 seconds, then release. Repeat 2-3 times on each foot.
- Toe curls: Place a towel on the floor and use your toes to grip and lift the towel, curling it towards you. Release and repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each foot.
- Big toe extension: Sit on a chair with your feet flat on the ground. Lift your big toe up as high as you can, then lower it back down. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each foot.
- Ankle circles: Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Lift one foot off the ground and make circles with your ankle in one direction, then switch directions. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each foot.
- Toe mobility with a resistance band: Loop a resistance band around your big toe and hold onto the other end with your hand. Gently pull your toe towards you, then release. Repeat for 10-15 repetitions on each foot.
It’s important to listen to your body and not push through pain during these exercises. Start with a few repetitions and gradually increase as you feel comfortable. These exercises can be done daily to improve range of motion in the big toe joint.
