Great Toe Stiffness (Hallus Limitus)

Before   After

Update: range of motion on big left toe has increased 100% and there is no pain at all. I have returned to my jogging regimen of 7 to 9 miles, 3 to 4 times per week, which was impossible for me to do before the surgery on 12/17/98. Thanks to Dr. Lee I am 100% mobile again! -  R. Van Bodegom

Stiffness of the great toe joint is often a sign of degeneration of the joint cartilage which occurs gradually with time.  Pain can be associated with stiffness, but not in all cases. When one has pain in the joint this usually indicates that the joint cartilage is worn down to bare bone or the bone to bone pressure is traumatically high (bone end pounding on bone end).

Conservative Treatments

Because this condition arises from an abnormal mechanical function of the great toe joint initial evaluation and treatment should always include a thorough examination and understanding of the specific mechanical shortcomings your toe function.  Based on these findings, treatments may include injections, oral anti-inflammatories (like Advil or Celebrex), physical therapy, custom orthotics (prescription arch inserts), rest, activity changes, and shoe gear changes.

If these regimens fail then surgery can be a excellent choice for returning you back to activities.

Surgical Treatments

There are a variety of excellent procedures for the correction of Hallux Limitus. The specific technique used for your condition will depend on the specific examination of the joint characteristics. Some individuals may have be candidates for joint reconstruction and some may require joint replacement.  Often times the decision for reconstruction versus replacement is an intra-operative (decided during the time of surgery) decision since x-rays,CT scans or MRI's don't reveal the precise condition of the cartilage.

Dr. Lee specializes in reconstructive joint surgery of the great toe.

Have Questions? We are available via email or phone

David Lee, D.P.M., South West Foot Institute, 1300 N 12th ST, Suite 503, Phoenix, Arizona,  85006  eMail: davidklee@cox.net  Office Phone: (602) 340-8686

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Last modified: February 10, 2008