Hallux Limitus can worsen if left Untreated

Hallux Limitus can worsen if left Untreated

bunions7.jpgHallux limitus is a foot condition in which there is stiffness of the big toe joint. If left to exacerbate, hallux limitus can turn into hallux rigidus, or arthritis of the big toe joint. To combat hallux limitus, your podiatrist may recommend shoes with stiff and rounded soles to minimize bending of the big toe joint. To avoid placing more pressure on the toe, wear shoes with a wide toe box. Other treatments can include shoe inserts or orthotics, cortisone injections, or surgery.

Untreated hallux limitus can become very painful. To learn more, see Dr. Alan Discont, D.P.M. of Family Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Discont will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and answer any of your related questions.  

What You Need To Know About Hallux Limitus

Hallux limitus is a medical condition which stands for “stiff toe.” This is an arthritic condition in which movement of the big toe is constrained. The pain is usually allocated between the large toe and foot.

Symptoms 

Toe pain is common, therefore many people tend to overlook this issue and believe it’s nothing serious. But, if you notice sharp pain, bone growths, tightness around the joint and even changes in the way you walk. It is vital to see a podiatrist before your condition worsens.  

How Do I Get It?

Genetics – hallux limitus can be inherited from your parents, or someone can be who is born with a predisposition to arthritis as well.

Injury – overuse can cause trauma to the joints leading to extra bone growth and wear away the cartilage.

Treatment

Lifestyle & Physical Therapy – having motion and massages to the given area will help slow down complications and gradually increase flexibility.

R.I.C.E. – stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Combining the R.I.C.E method with other treatments is proven effective.

Surgery

If there are no signs of improvement, surgery will be the final option. Surgeries performed are the arthrodesis which fuses the joint. The cheilectomy is when the joint is cleaned of scar tissue, therefore the toe can move freely.

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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