Petrolia Foot Clinic
4347 Petrolia Line
Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0
519-882-0019
Chatham Foot Clinic
857 Grand Ave West, Suite 100
Chatham, ON N7L 4T1
519-351-7573
An unmovable big toe, known as Hallux Rigidus, is the most common form of arthritis in your foot.
Hallux Rigidus occurs as a result of wear-and-tear injuries, which wear down the articular cartilage, causing raw bone ends to rub together. A bone spur, or overgrowth, may develop on the top of the bone. This overgrowth can prevent the toe from bending as much as it needs to when you walk. The resulting stiff big toe can make walking painful and difficult.
Symptoms include:
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are often prescribed to reduce swelling and ease the pain. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. Applying ice packs or soaking the foot in contrast baths (alternating cold and hot water) may also help reduce inflammation and control symptoms for a short period of time.
A stiff-soled shoe with a rocker or roller bottom design and possibly a steel shank or metal brace in the sole can help alleviate the symptoms. These types of shoes add greater support when walking and reduce the amount of bend in the big toe.
When damage is more severe, a surgical procedure may be performed to remove the bone spurs, as well as a portion of the foot bone, and allow the toe more room to bend.
Questions or Comments?
We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.
Chatham Foot Clinic
857 Grand Ave West, Suite 100
Chatham, ON N74T1
Petrolia Foot Clinic
4347 Petrolia Line
Petrolia, ON N0N 1R0