Functional Hallux Limitus

Functional Hallux Limitus is a painful condition where there is limited upward motion in the big toe joint while walking.  The big toe normally has a range of upward motion of 50 to 90 degrees which enables it to flex upward and push off the ground when walking.  When this motion is limited it affects the way your foot works as you walk.  The big toe will not properly propel you forward and will thus affect your gait, causing increased fatigue and pain. It also puts strain on the rest of the foot and other joints of the lower extremity which have to compensate.   

It is normally caused by an abnormal alignment of the long bone behind the big toe joint called the first metatarsal bone. Left untreated, Hallux Limitus can cause other joint problems, calluses, and diabetic foot ulcers.

Painful bone spurs also can develop on the top of the big toe joint. This spurring develops slowly over time and is from jamming of the joint.

Anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections are often given as temporary relief measures. Long term help is given by custom made functional orthotics.  We have a special kind of orthotic that is made specifically for this problem.  This orthotic promotes normal joint motion so surgery can be avoided.  These will make the way you walk more normal or "ideal".

Surgery may be prescribed if spurring around the joint becomes severe. There are different stages of development or destruction of the joint.  I will assess and develop a treatment plan that is appropriate for you.