Hallux (Big Toe) Limitus & Rigidus Series
Part 1 – Pathology (What is it?)
Hallux refers to the Big Toe, so Hallux Limitus and Hallux Rigidus refer to progressive degenerative conditions affecting the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint (Big Toe Joint), leading to reduced motion (Hallux Limitus) and eventual stiffness and almost complete immobility (Hallux Rigidus). These conditions are characterized by:
– Osteoarthritis of the first MTP joint (Arthritis in the Big Toe Joint)
– Cartilage degeneration leading to joint narrowing/getting smaller
– Osteophyte formation (Bone Spurs), causing pain and restricted dorsiflexion (upward bending)
– Inflammation and synovial thickening (Joint Linings), worsening stiffness
*Note* these conditions wont always be presented together, as the condition moves towards Rigidus there will be more symptoms and/or worsening of the symptoms already present. Overall for both Hallux Limitus and Rigidus there is pain, stiffness, and the range of motion is limited
Summary:
Hallux Limitus: this represents the early stage, where movement is restricted but it’s still possible
Hallux Rigidus: this is the end stage, where the joint becomes very restricted and barely moves, and sometimes it’s even completely immobile.
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