If the big toe blocks when rolling

Hallux rigidus

What is that?

Hallux rigidus is the name given to the significantly restricted mobility in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe, which is usually the result of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is generally the wear and tear of the cartilage in a joint, often caused by age or various genetic factors. Pain then arises from the increasing wear and tear and structural changes in the joint, known as remodeling.  

How does this manifest itself? 

Depending on how severe the signs of wear and tear are, different symptoms can occur. Pain that is dependent on the strain is usually described at the beginning. Another typical symptom is starting pain, i.e. the first few steps after a rest period are painful and then subside with increasing movement. The further the wear and tear progresses, the more severe the pain becomes, which can then also be felt during a rest period. This often leads to muscular tension, as the body tries to counteract the pain by adopting a protective posture. This in turn leads to uneven strain on the joints and thus contributes to the deterioration of the condition.

Where does it come from?

Unfortunately, the cartilage in our joints has very poor blood circulation. As a result, it can no longer compensate for mechanical overload or age-related wear and tear in old age. Cartilage cannot renew itself like the rest of our body cells. Various adaptation processes occur, which can then subsequently trigger pain in the joint. 

What happens if I don’t act here?

If the big toe joint hurts with every step, the foot tries to find an evasive movement. First, over the little toe joints and then over the outer edge of the foot. This means that the foot tilts outwards and the outer tarsal bones are overstressed, which in some cases can even lead to fractures. Both the ankle and the knee joint are placed under the wrong load, which in turn leads to an increased risk of arthrosis.

It is essential that the foot physiology is restored through biomechanical replacement.

How do I find out if I have something like this?

An X-ray is often taken to accurately assess the arthrosis. Depending on its appearance, the arthrosis is then divided into different stages in order to determine further treatment steps. However, the decisive factor in terms of treatment is not the X-ray itself or the stage derived from it, but the symptoms described. There is often no clear connection between the findings in the X-ray and the pain felt.

How do you treat this?

The first priority is mechanical relief through orthopedic shoe technology. The aim here is to replace the function of the metatarsophalangeal joint. Insoles with a built-in Rigidus spring provide relief. It is inserted into the sole area of the metatarsophalangeal joint of the insole. This spring measurably reduces the load on the joint when rolling or replaces the joint function. 

Shoes that have a rolling sole are also recommended. The shape doesn't have to be as pronounced as you might initially think. The important thing is that the sole is rounded in the ball area. 
Pumps also come in biomechanically favorable shapes - a platform sole is recommended, with a rounded forefoot area to make rolling easier. The upper material should be flexible and not cause any pressure points.  

During an acute phase of pain, it is recommended to apply ice or a curd compress to cool the joint.