Big problems for big toe joints

Big toe joint problems aren’t fun, as many people know from personal experience. Red, swollen, or misshapen joints can be unsightly. Still worse, though, is the pain –– and sometimes the risk of immobility –– that accompanies big toe joint problems. Fortunately, you can take some simple steps to help relieve pain and keep you from slowing down. Big toe 101 The big toe has two joints, but the one most vulnerable to problems is the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. It connects the first long bone (metatarsal) in the forefoot to the first bone of the big toe (phalanx). The MTP joint bends with every step you take, so you can push off and let the other leg move forward. But the poor MTP joint takes a beating during that process, supporting half your body weight for a brief moment as you push off. Osteoarthritis A common consequence for the MTP joint is osteoarthritis, the wearing away of cartilage at the end of the bones. It often shows up starting in middle age. Without cartilage, the space between bones decreases and the bones rub against each other. This can cause pain and lead to painful growths called osteophytes or bone spurs. Osteoarthritis can also cause a loss of flexibility in the MTP joint, a condition known as hallux rigidus. But MTP arthritis isn’t always painful. “Often, big toe arthritis doesn’t cause symptoms. We commonly see people come in for other problems and then we see arthritis on an x-ray,” says Dr. Christopher Chiodo, chief of foot and an...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Bones and joints Exercise and Fitness Foot Care Health Source Type: blogs