Does hallux rigidus cause foot pain?

Hallux rigidus is stiffness and degenerative change in the joint at the base of the big toe. As the joint becomes less able to bend upward, walking, climbing stairs or pushing off can cause pain at the joint and sometimes along the forefoot. A bump on top of the joint may rub against shoes. Stiffness is often more noticeable after rest, and altered walking can place extra load on other parts of the foot. Foot pain has several possible causes, so an examination helps separate this problem from injury, arthritis elsewhere or nerve-related symptoms.

Choose shoes with a roomy toe box and a firm or supportive sole to limit painful bending at the big-toe joint. Avoid activities that repeatedly force the toe upward while symptoms are active. A clinician or physiotherapist can assess walking mechanics and discuss exercises, inserts, medication options or other treatments suited to your joint. Do not force the toe through a painful range. Keeping a note of triggers, footwear and stiffness can make the appointment more useful.

Arrange a clinical assessment if foot pain persists, limits walking, causes a growing shoe-pressure bump or keeps disturbing activity. Seek prompt care after an injury that causes severe pain, obvious deformity, marked swelling or inability to bear weight. Sudden redness, heat and swelling with fever also needs urgent assessment, because infection or another acute joint problem requires different treatment.

Ask whether the big-toe joint explains your pain, whether an X-ray is useful, which footwear changes may help, and how to maintain movement without irritating the joint.