Stuck in First

Stiffness and pain of the first toe is an all-too-common problem that many people suffer from. Usually, the symptoms arise in the “ball” region of the foot just behind the first toe (or ‘hallux’) where a major joint is located which connects the toe to a long bone in the mid-foot. As this joint becomes damaged or altered for various reasons, the toe loses flexibility which makes walking and other activities painful.
The stability in each foot is in many ways a three-point balancing act. Weight must be properly shared between the heel, the smaller four toes (and their respective joints), and the first toe and it’s respective joint as previously described. For this reason, the major first toe joint is subject to many forces and other factors which can affect the way it functions over time. Some of these forces include biomechanical factors such as the way the heel moves, traumatic incidents such as fractures or dislocations, muscle imbalances, arthritic changes, or even changes incurred from a previous surgery. The ultimate result is that the first toe is unable to bend properly which makes walking difficult as you shift weight over the foot and then attempt to push off from the forefoot and toes.
Some of the symptoms that people tend to have with this phenomenon include an inability to wear high-heeled shoes, calluses or skin changes over the top of the big toe, pain and stiffness above and behind the first toe, pain or a ‘crackling’ feeling while moving the toe, a painful toenail, and cramps or spasms in the tendon which runs along the top of the toe. Your podiatrist can also perform some valuable exams to evaluate your condition and determine the nature and cause of your symptoms. A key determining factor is whether the issue is caused by a structural condition of bone or whether it is due to deforming forces of soft tissues or biomechanical issues elsewhere in the foot. X-rays can also reveal a great deal about the health and integrity of the joint and foot overall.
Thankfully, many treatment options are possible for this condition. These range from specific exercises to shoe gear modifications to implants or other surgical procedures. In some cases, certain stretching routines are recommended in order to loosen the soft tissues and increase flexibility at the joint. These exercises may be painful, and if necessary they can be done at your podiatrist’s office where proper assistance, monitoring, and local anesthesia are available if needed.
Your mobility is one of your greatest assets to your overall health and well-being. Therefore, a stiff or painful toe should be addressed promptly and adequately.

Advanced Foot Care
Robert E. Kuvent, DPM
3225 S Alma School Rd
Chandler, AZ 85248
480.917.2300
http://www.yourfeetfixer.com