Some people may have a family history of the condition and inherit a foot type which is more prone to developing problems within the big toe joint. People with flat feet and other structural deformities such as fallen arches and excessive pronation (rolling in) of the ankles are particularly susceptible to hallux rigidus because of the stress placed on their big toe joints.
In other patients, there can be one or a combination of factors which trigger the development of this condition. Hallux rigidus can occur spontaneously, without any obvious cause. About 20 to 25 per cent of patients experience increasing stiffness and loss of mobility and are likely to require treatment. However, in the majority of cases, it does not get progressively worse. Hallux rigidus can start early in life, even during teenage years or the twenties. At this end stage of hallux rigidus, other related problems are likely to have developed in the foot. The big toe can become what is known as a “frozen joint” when all movement is lost. This can produce pain in the ball or outside of the foot. People may walk on the outer side of the foot to avoid pain from the big toe. Development of bony bumps (osteophyte) may develop on the top of the joint which can rub on shoes.Symptoms are worse during cold and damp weatherĪt a more advanced stage, symptoms include:.Swelling and inflammation around the joint.Problems with some activities such as running.Some people will develop what is known as hallux limitus, where mobility is restricted rather than lost. The condition varies in terms of stiffness, pain and loss of mobility. The big toe is used every time we walk, bend down, climb up and even stand still. With every step, a force equal to about twice your body weight passes through this very small joint. Your big toes bear a great deal of pressure as you walk. Hallux rigidus is a form of osteoarthritis which occurs when the cartilage within the joint wears out. ‘Hallux’ is the Greek word for big toe and ‘rigidus’ indicates the joint is stiff and inflexible.
A common problem which affects the big toe is called hallux rigidus or stiff big toe.
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