Hallux Limitus/Rigidus is a condition where your big toe has a limited range of motion. It’s mostly uncomfortable, but in serious cases, it can be difficult to walk.
The cause of Hallux Limitus is usually due to the anatomy of your foot or previous trauma to the big toe that damaged the joint. Arthritis and ill-fitting footwear can also cause this condition.
In many cases, early treatment may prevent or postpone the need for
surgery in the future. Treatment for mild or moderate cases of hallux
rigidus may include custom-molded orthotics with a cut out to offload the
painful joint, anti-inflammatory medication, or a cortisone injection in
more severe cases.
If these fail and symptoms persist surgery may be necessary to remove
bone spurs or loose pieces of cartilage or bone.
In more severe cases (I.e. bone on bone type arthritis) an implant may be
used to replace the damaged cartilage in the joint or the joint itself may
be fused.
