Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions across the globe. It is a painful condition that worsens with time if timely attention is not given. Arthritis can affect any of the joints in our body and in this post, we will discuss the arthritis of the big toe. Let us start with a brief introduction to the condition.
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Big Toe Arthritis – An Introduction
Also known as Hallux Rigidus, big toe arthritis is a condition that affects the junction of the big toe and foot. It is a common arthritis of the foot that is mostly noticed in people over 50. The condition is more common in women than men. Hallux rigidus starts developing at an early age and shows mild symptoms later. In most cases, the condition doesn’t require any special treatment as it can be managed with conservative treatments like over-the-counter medicines and other non-surgical treatments. Let us dive into the possible causes of the condition.
What Causes Big Toe Arthritis?
What if we say that Hallux rigidus develops on its own in most cases without any specific cause? Yes, that’s true. With age, wear & tear in joints result in damage to cartilage, and as a result, people suffer from conditions like big toe arthritis or other forms of osteoarthritis.
Above all, the condition may also develop in people who experience a lot of stress on their toes while walking or doing certain activities. Athletic activities that result in overuse of the big toe joint are also at risk of developing Hallux rigidus or big toe arthritis. Besides this, it is also seen that people who have longer bones than normal in their feet or toes can also develop arthritis in their big toe. Visit odishadiscom
What Are the Symptoms of Big Toe Arthritis?
Pain is the obvious symptom of Hallux Rigidus. People suffering from the condition often experience pain on the top of the toe. In some cases, the pain may be felt deeper in the toe. Besides pain, other symptoms associated with big toe arthritis may include:
Stiffness in the big toe
Swelling
Reduced range of motion
Bunion or formation of callus on the top of your big toe
How Big Toe Arthritis Is Diagnosed?
During the diagnosis of the condition, the healthcare service provider first performs a physical examination. During that, the healthcare service provider will test the range of motion of the toe joint. For that, he/she will check how far the toe moves up and down. For confirmation, the doctor may also order a foot x-ray to identify the presence of any bone spurs.
Hallux Rigidus is classified into 5 grades:
Grade 0 – Here, there is 10-20% less movement of the affected toe than the toe of another foot
Grade 1 – There is 20-50% less movement of the affected big toe
Grade2 – 50-75% less movement of the affected big toe
Grade 3 – 75-100% less movement of the affected big toe
Grade 4 – Similar to grade 3 along with severe pain in the affected big toe
What is the Treatment for Big Toe Arthritis?
The treatment of the condition depends on its severity. Besides this, the cause of big toe arthritis also has a say in its treatment. Here are the suggested treatments for Hallux Rigidus:
Lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes mean limiting the movement of your affected big toe. For that, the healthcare service provider may provide shoe support for the big toe that’ll help limit its movement. Besides this, the patient will also be asked to avoid activities that put their big toe under stress.
Changing the Footwear
To improve pain caused by big toe arthritis, it is advised to avoid wearing high heels or shoes that irritate your toes. Try wearing comfortable shoes that have enough space for the big toe. Shoes with stiff soles are also known to provide relief from pain.
Over-the-Counter Drugs
OTC pain relievers like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are also helpful in improving pain and swelling associated with arthritis. However, still it is advised to seek an expert’s help before taking such drugs as they can cause complications in the long run.
Ice Packs
Applying ice packs can also be helpful in improving symptoms of Hallux Rigidus.
Foot Soaks
In some cases, the healthcare service provider suggests a contrast foot bath. This means the patient will be asked to soak the affected foot in hot water for around 30 seconds and then immediately place it in cold water for another 30 seconds.
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Surgery
If other treatments fail to provide any relief, the healthcare service provider will recommend surgical intervention. Here are the available surgical options:
- Cheilectomy
- Osteotomy
- Arthroplasty
- Arthrodesis
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