"Hallux" refers to the big toe, and "Rigidus" indicates the stiffness that occurs in the joint. It is the most commonly developed arthritic condition and can make everyday life extremely painful when not treated properly.

To ensure you’re armed with the right knowledge and information to protect and prevent your feet from Hallux Rigidus, we’re going to look at the causes, effects and treatments.

hallux-rigidus
What is Hallux Rigidus

What is Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux Rigidus is a degenerative condition that affects the joint at the base of the big toe, known as the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The condition is a form of arthritis that primarily involves the wearing down of the cartilage within the joint, leading to stiffness and limited range of motion.

The condition typically develops gradually over time and is more commonly seen in adults, especially those over the age of 30. 

What Causes Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux Rigidus is primarily caused by the degeneration of the cartilage in the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The exact cause of this condition is often multifactorial and can be caused by various factors:

  • Wear and tear of the muscles and joints over time 
  • Foot abnormalities such as overpronation or over-supination
  • Obesity or weight gain
  • Trauma or injury to the foot
  • Genetics
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Overpronation of the feet
  • Improper footwear
What Causes Hallux Rigidus
Who is at Risk of Developing Hallux Rigidus

Who is at Risk of Developing Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux Rigidus can affect individuals of various age groups, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition. Here are some ways you may be at risk of developing Hallux Rigidus:

  • Are aged over 30
  • Frequently wear high heels or flip-flops
  • Structural abnormalities
  • Standing for long periods of time
  • Engaging in frequent physical activity that places stress on the feet
  • A prior foot injury
  • A family history of Hallux Rigidus
  • An inflammatory condition such as rheumatoid arthritis

How to Know if You Have Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux Rigidus is typically characterised by pain and discomfort in the affected toe joint. Since symptoms and pain can vary from person to person, here’s what you should look out for if you think you have Hallux Rigidus:

  • Toe joint pain in the base of the big toe
  • Stiffness and/or a limited range of motion in the big toe
  • Swelling around the toe joint, especially during or after physical activity
  • Difficult wearing certain footwear
  • Enlargement of the big toe or a visible bump
How to Know if You Have Hallux Rigidus
How is Hallux Rigidus Diagnosed

How is Hallux Rigidus Diagnosed?

Hallux Rigidus can be diagnosed through a combination of ways depending on the symptoms you are experiencing. Here are some of the most common diagnostic methods a doctor will use:

  • A look at your medical history
  • A physical examination of your feet
  • A range of motion and strength test
  • Imaging tests via ultrasound or X-ray

How is Hallux Rigidus Treated?

Hallux Rigidus can be treated in many different ways depending on the symptoms you are experiencing and the severity of the condition. 

Here are the most effective treatment options: 

  • Cheilectomy - removing the bone spurs and other obstructions that are limiting movement in the toe joint
  • Osteomtomy - realigning the bones to restore proper joint function and alignment
  • Joint fusion - permanently fusing the bones of the joint together
  • Joint replacement - removing the damaged joint surface and replacing them with artificial implants
How is Hallux Rigidus Treated
How Can I Prevent Hallux Rigidus

How Can I Prevent Hallux Rigidus?

While it's not always possible to prevent Hallux Rigidus, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing the condition. Here are some of the best preventative measures to implement: 

What are the advantages of wearing INFINIRI socks?

INFINIRI socks are intelligently designed to prevent the pain and discomfort caused by Hallux Rigidus. Through tried and tested technology, INFINIRI socks have been developed to be worn no matter where you are, what you’re doing, or where you’re going. 

Here's why you should wear INFINIRI socks:

  • Cushioning pads at the heel and forefoot of the sock have a supporting effect on the stretched arch of the foot
  • Supportive pads add gentle compression to the toes, soles and ankles of feet to help blood flow, reduce inflammation and prevent pain
  • Specially designed foot pads and soft forefoot cushion absorb pressure peaks
  • The thinned fatty tissue under the sole of the foot is replaced by the soft forefoot cushioning within the socks
  • The socks provide shock absorption to spread pressure around the feet and ankles
  • Supportive pads lift and cushion the metatarsal bones, enabling your foot into its natural, healthy position to help prevent pain when you perform physical activities, including intense exercise and daily tasks

Take an in-depth look at the technology and innovation behind INFINIRI here.

Please note that although INFINIRI socks act as preventative and protective footwear, they are not a replacement for medical intervention. If you are experiencing severe pain and discomfort, you should always consult with a healthcare professional or seek medical attention.

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Securing a Patent for this Revelation

Securing a Patent for this Revelation

Through innovative technology, INFINIRI intelligent support sock help prevent a number of foot ailments and offer pain prevention.

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