Hallux Limitus and Hallux Rigidus is a painful condition. Generally, it is characterized by arthritic changes in the big toe joint, causing pain when the person attempts to flex their toe upwards or downwards, which causes the bones to grind together without cartilage protection. There are many ways to treat Hallux Limitus or Hallux Rigidus which is profiled in this article:
Another treatment you might consider is getting into better shoes. A good shoe for hallux limitus removes the stress on the big toe joint thus reducing the pain. Here is a good list of shoes for Hallux Limitus:
https://podiatryadvice.com/best-shoes-for-hallux-limitus-rigidus-or-arthritis-of-the-big-toe-joint/
Orthotics are a highly effective treatment strategy for Hallux Limitus or Rigidus. What you are looking for in an orthotic or insert for your shoe in the treatment of Hallux Limitus is to restrict motion of the great toe joint. By restricting motion and not having the joint grind against each other, the pain will decrease. This requires a very specific form of orthotic.
Now one option and really the best option is to visit a Podiatrist and have them make you an orthotic specifically designed for your foot. Unless the orthotics are covered by insurance the cost can exceed $400. Check with your insurance carrier and if your insurance covers orthotics make an appointment with a Podiatrist today.
But if you are looking for a cheaper alternative, then over the counter orthotics are a way to go. I have never actually seen Hallux Limitus orthotics available in the stores, but I have provided a link to Amazon.
Carbon Fiber Insoles
These orthotics, which come in all sizes, have been specifically designed with the Hallux Limitus or Rigidus sufferer in mind. They have a solid forefoot to help restrict motion in the first metatarsal phalangeal joint. This will always provide support to the joint. These are also light weight and easy to put into any shoe with reduced space.
Carboplast Contoured Mortons Toe Plate– These orthotics as well are created with Hallux Limitus and Rigidus in mind. This is the approach favored by a large amount of Podiatrists. This provides a still plate which will limit motion in the first MTP. What you will often hear Podiatrists references in creating orthotics for Hallux Limitus is a Morton’s extension. Here is an orthotic that provides that in itself,a Morton’s extension.
Those are a little pricey, but really the only ones on the market. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative consider using a splint. A good splint or brace will limit the motion of the big toe joint while you walk. Here are a couple good examples of what I am talking about.
Superfeet Carbon Insoles Fiber
Now if you are a runner in need of a Hallux Rigidus or Hallux Limitus insole, this is probably the type of orthotic you are going to want to look for. This orthotic provides the carbon extension of the previous orthotic, but also provides support and padding. This orthotic was developed with the athlete or runner in mind as well.
Good luck in your journey with Hallux Limitus and Hallux Rigidus pain. If you have any questions further email me at sjstinehour@yahoo.com