Big toe Pain

Hallux Rigidus/Limitus is the formal name for degenerative arthritis and stiffness caused by bone spurs that affect the big toe joint (the Hallux).

The condition causes a decreased range of motion, as well as pain and stiffness in your big toe joint. 

In time, this limited range of motion can result in arthritis of the joint, otherwise known as Hallux Rigidus/Limitus. The restriction may be a combination of soft tissue contracture and/or bone spur build-up around the joint.

Hallux Rigidus/Limitus is the formal name for degenerative arthritis and stiffness caused by bone spurs that affect the big toe joint (the Hallux).

The condition causes a decreased range of motion, as well as pain and stiffness in your big toe joint. 

In time, this limited range of motion can result in arthritis of the joint, otherwise known as Hallux Rigidus/Limitus. The restriction may be a combination of soft tissue contracture and/or bone spur build-up around the joint.

If you have developed pain in or around your big toe joint and find it is worse with activity and/or when wearing certain shoes, you may be suffering from Hallux Rigidus/Limitus. 

The resulting pain can also be experienced when you’re resting and can, therefore, be unnecessarily debilitating.

If you are suffering from Hallux Rigidus/Limitus, your toe will be red and swollen and/or may have been misdiagnosed as gout.

Your Footfocus podiatrist will first need to conduct a full analysis of your foot and leg to provide a more informed picture of what may be the cause of your symptoms. 

A complete understanding is key to the correct diagnosis and treatment as the symptoms can be similar to other conditions.

Once we have determined the extent of your foot health concerns, we will talk through your foot health condition with you, answer your questions and offer you the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment options may include one or more of the following: 

• A footwear review
• Orthoses
• Mobilisation
• Injection therapy
• A home programme of stretching
• Shockwave therapy
• In rare cases, we will refer you for a surgical consultation

If your condition is left untreated, your toe may become rigid, which can severely affect the mechanics in your leg, knee and hip. Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and hip problems can also be linked to hallux rigidus/limitus.

We have access to some of the most advanced equipment available, and so a visit to one of our friendly and professional Footfocus podiatrists is the best option when seeking an accurate diagnosis. Our range of tools complements our extensive expertise and experience. 

We use diagnostic ultrasound, force pressure analysis and slow-motion video gait analysis to provide an accurate, reliable and reassuring diagnosis, which helps us provide a tailored treatment pathway.   

Book an appointment today to receive our complete health treatment approach, from the feet up. 

Sign up to our newsletter for more information, offers and foot care advice.