Do You Have Pain in Your Big Toe Joint?

Have you suddenly developed pain in your big toe joint? This may be a sign of a condition called, hallux rigidus. In this diagnosis you hear two words, hallux and rigidus.  Your hallux is the great toe and rigidus means stiff or rigid, just like it sounds. Unlike a bunion that's on the side of your big toe joint and may or may not be painful, in hallux rigidus the pain is on top of your big toe joint.

Initially, you’ll feel the pain occasionally when you move. As it progresses the pain will be more constant. Activities that can bring it on are walking, going up and down stairs, or participating in sports activities such as golf.

Causes of Hallux Rigidus

Halllux rigidus becomes more common with age, as the cartilage in the big toe joint wears down. Other risk factors for this condition are:

• Faulty foot mechanics such as flat feet resulting in over-pronation (rolling your feet in)
• Overuse through sports or long periods of standing on the job.
• Previous trauma to the toe (stubbing or turf toe resulting from sports activities.
• Certain health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and autoimmune disorders.

Symptoms of Hallux Rigidus

• A bump, like a bunion or callus, that develops on the top of the foot.
• Pain in the joint when active, especially as you push-off on the toes when you walk.
• Pain and stiffness aggravated by cold, damp weather.
• Stiffness in the big toe and an inability to bend it up or down.
• Swelling around the joint.

In the early stages, the great toe may move but as it progresses the joint becomes more and more rigid. Through the clinical exam and X-rays your podiatrist can determine how far this condition has progressed.

When this condition is diagnosed early, it's called hallux limitus because the range of motion of the joint is limited. At that point, the problem can be controlled with custom orthotics. If the condition is not treated, it will eventually progress to hallus rigidus which may or may not respond to conservative treatment. That's why it's critical to get this condition treated early.

Treatment of Hallux Rigidus

• Orthotics are used to control the biomechanics of the foot and the pain.
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce swelling and ease the pain. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications.
• Applying ice packs or soaking the foot in contrast baths (alternating cold and hot water) may also help reduce inflammation and control symptoms for a short period.
• A carbon graphite insole or a stiff-soled shoe with a rocker or roller bottom design can help alleviate the symptoms. These types of shoes add greater support when walking and reduce the amount of bend in the big toe. Many shoe manufacturers are now designing shoes with a rocker. E.g. Hoka, Alegria.

When damage is more severe, a surgical procedure will be necessary.  In selecting the procedure or combination of procedures for your particular case, Dr. Berg will take into consideration the extent of your deformity based on the x-ray findings, your age, and your activity level. The length of the recovery period will vary depending on the procedure or procedures performed.

Other Causes of Big Toe Pain

While hallux rigidus is a common cause of big toe pain, so is gout--a painful inflammatory condition. Learn more about gout here!

To learn about other causes of ball of foot pain, click here!

Need Relief from Big Toe Pain in Seattle, Washington? Request an Appointment Now

Don't let big toe pain cause you to miss out on the activities you enjoy. Complete the contact form on this page or call our office, the Foot and Ankle Center of Lake City, at 206-368-7000 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rion Berg.

Most new patients are seen within 1-2 week's time. During your initial visit, Dr. Berg will spend up to 30 minutes getting to know you, your podiatry complaints, and your goals so that he can recommend the treatment best meets your needs. Don’t wait—contact us today.

North Seattle Foot & Ankle Specialist Dr. Rion Berg offers compassionate podiatry care for all foot and ankle problems to those living in Seattle Washington and the surrounding areas. Call us today at 206-368-7000 for an immediate appointment or request an appointment online.

If you have a stiff big toe, please call our office to set up an appointment with Dr. Berg at 206-368-7000 or request an appointment online.