Hallux Rigidus
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Hallux rigidus is a disorder of the joint located at the base of the big toe. It causes pain and stiffness in the joint, 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. Hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis.
Because hallux rigidus is a progressive condition, the toe’s motion decreases as time goes on. In its earlier stage, when motion of the big toe is only somewhat limited, the condition is called “hallux limitus.” But as the problem advances, the toe’s range of motion gradually decreases until it potentially reaches the end stage of “rigidus,” in which the big toe becomes stiff, or what is sometimes called a “frozen joint.”
Common causes of hallux rigidus are faulty function (biomechanics), structural abnormalities of the foot, and genetics.
At Granville Physio your therapist will teach you how to improve your arch mechanics, successfully apply a supportive device such as tape and insoles, and use the best equipment to reduce the size of the rigid deformity through shockwave, ultrasound, and ice.
Because hallux rigidus is a progressive condition, the toe’s motion decreases as time goes on. In its earlier stage, when motion of the big toe is only somewhat limited, the condition is called “hallux limitus.” But as the problem advances, the toe’s range of motion gradually decreases until it potentially reaches the end stage of “rigidus,” in which the big toe becomes stiff, or what is sometimes called a “frozen joint.”
Common causes of hallux rigidus are faulty function (biomechanics), structural abnormalities of the foot, and genetics.
At Granville Physio your therapist will teach you how to improve your arch mechanics, successfully apply a supportive device such as tape and insoles, and use the best equipment to reduce the size of the rigid deformity through shockwave, ultrasound, and ice.
