Hallux Limitus & Rigidus
Hallux is the medical term for the big toe. The big toe is one of the most important parts of the body, as it provides propulsive force... Read more
Educational Articles
Hallux Limitus: Conventional vs. Natural Approaches
In this video, Dr. Ray McClanahan, a sports podiatrist at Northwest Foot and Ankle and the inventor of Correct Toes, dives deep into the condition called hallux limitus. Hallux limitus is a condition in which the big toe is unable to bend upward (or dorsiflex) to a proper degree. This foot health problem begins early in life in those who wear conventional footwear. Tapering toe boxes and other injurious shoe design elements force the sesamoid bones (located beneath the big toe) out of place, which ultimately limits big toe dorsiflexion. Bone growth may then occur on top of the first metatarsal bone, along with cartilage loss. In some cases, the hallux limitus condition progresses to hallux rigidus, where the big toe cannot bend upward to any degree.
Conventional treatment of hallux limitus usually involves a variety of orthotic devices and surgery to remove bone growth in the affected area. Natural, conservative care involves adopting foot-shaped footwear and using Correct Toes to help realign the sesamoid bones to the position that nature intended. Other helpful approaches to improve big toe mobility and flexibility include the Toe Extensor Stretch, the Big Toe Stretch, and big toe traction. If there is no mobility left in the toe (i.e., hallux rigidus), it's likely that natural approaches will not be effective and that surgical correction will be required.
Disclaimer:
The above content is for educational or informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or augment professional medical instruction, diagnosis, or treatment. Read full disclaimer here.About the Author
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WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR FOOT HEALTH?
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My foot surgeon advises to avoid shoes with much flex in the forefoot—the opposite of the approach on this site. BACKGROUND: My L foot hallux pain (bony spike on top, almost zero cartilage left) required bone fusion surgery 4 months ago. At the same time, the surgeon “released” nerves in my outer toes; excruciating pain had not really responded to conservative care for a year. In truth, once the nerve pain had been somewhat reduced, the enormous pain in my large toe became obvious (an X-ray showed why). It’s true that “trying” to bend results in my L forefoot bending only the outer toes, as my L big toe is now fused. Is that a problem? Is this surgeon “old fashioned?” What gives? Your thoughts are welcome.
Hi, Deborah,
Thank you for your message. Our approach to foot health is based on the natural function of the foot. We believe that, in most scenarios, the foot functions best when it can act like a bare foot inside of the shoe. Once problems occur and are fixed surgically, however, it’s difficult for us to assess your specific needs without an in person examination. While our approach isn’t necessarily “conventional,” we understand that there are many different approaches for individuals seeking different types of treatment. You may find some helpful information in the education section of our site, and this article might be a good place to start:
Six Ways to Restore Foot Health After Surgery:
www.naturalfootgear.com/blogs/education/17914760-six-ways-to-restore-foot-health-after-surgery
I hope this information has been helpful for you! If you have further questions or concerns, please feel free to email us at info@naturalfootgear.com.
Kind Regards,
Andrew Potter
Could you share what type of shoes with wide box toes to wear? My current shoes squeeze my toes together. My big toe is still flexible, though not too much. Thanks.
Hi, Sandra,
Thank you for your question! We’re happy to suggest some foot-healthy footwear options for you.
Over the years we’ve developed some key criteria to define foot-healthy shoes, which you can learn more about here: www.naturalfootgear.com/pages/nfg-certified-stamp. All of the shoes listed on our site meet those standards. We have a variety of options for a range of activities. Our most versatile shoe, however, is probably the Lems Primal 2. It’s great for hiking, walking, gym activities, and casual daily use. You can check out the Primal 2 at the following link:
www.naturalfootgear.com/collections/womens-lems-primal-2-shoes
Be sure to check the “Sizing” tab for some helpful sizing recommendations. If you don’t think the Primal 2 is what you’re looking for, then you can view all of our women’s footwear options below:
www.naturalfootgear.com/collections/womens-shoes
I hope this information has been helpful. If you have any questions moving forward, please don’t hesitate to let us know!
Kind Regards,
Andrew Potter