Definition
Hallux Rigidus is a progressive condition characterized by loss of motion of the first ray in adults due to degenerative changes in the MTP joint. Acute trauma and repetitive microtrauma predispose to arthritic changes.
Symptoms
The patient usually suffers from pain on the dorsal aspect of the 1st MTP.
A bump, like a bunion or callus, often develops on the top of the foot. Shoe irritation, limited dorsiflexion of the first toe and joint stiffness are also present.
Treatment
Conservative treatment is the first line: orthosis , shoe changing and activity modification.
Many surgical interventions exist
Dorsal Cheilectomy (removing 25% of the dorsal aspect of the metatarsal head along with dorsal osteophyte resection.
MTP joint arthrodesis
Dorsal Cheilectomy
MTP Arthrodesis
Complications
As for every intervention, surgical interventions are at risk of Hematoma, nerve damage, infection, non union ( if MTP arthrodesis was done)