HALLUX RIGIDUS

The most common site of arthritis in the foot is at the base of the big toe. This joint is known as the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, which is covered by articular cartilage. If wear-and-tear or injury damages the articular cartilage, the raw bone ends can 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 walking. The result is a stiff big toe, or hallux rigidus which can make walking painful and difficult.