Hallux limitus (Big toe joint arthritis) Treatment St. Catharines — Registered Chiropodist
Hallux limitus (big‑toe arthritis) Treatment St. Catharines — Registered Chiropodist. Custom orthotics, shockwave, footwear & rehab to reduce pain. Book now.
Early in‑clinic assessment by a trusted Ontario registered chiropodist for hallux limitus (big‑toe arthritis) helps protect joint motion and reduce pain — book an assessment to start conservative care, custom orthotics, and a tailored rehab plan.
What is hallux limitus
Hallux limitus is degenerative arthritis of the big‑toe joint that restricts upward motion of the toe and can progress to hallux rigidus (a frozen, non‑bending joint). The big toe endures large forces during walking, so limited motion often causes pain, stiffness, and activity limits.
Common causes and risk factors
Hallux limitus most often stems from biomechanical faults (over‑pronation, fallen arches), inherited foot shape, repetitive stress (work or sport), or prior injury such as stubbing the toe. These factors alter joint loading and accelerate cartilage wear.
Conservative treatments we emphasize
Our clinic prioritizes non‑surgical care: custom orthotics to correct mechanics and off‑load the first metatarsophalangeal joint, footwear changes (stiff or rocker soles, wide toe box), targeted physical therapy such as ultrasound, and modalities to reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is offered as a non‑invasive adjunct for chronic symptoms and can improve pain and mobility when combined with rehabilitation.
Early management and realistic outcomes
Early assessment is critical—conservative measures can slow progression and often postpone surgery. Orthotics and strengthening reduce abnormal joint stress; shockwave and focused rehab may improve function but do not restore lost cartilage. Long‑term success depends on adherence to footwear, activity modification, and follow‑up care.
Symptoms, imaging, and when surgery is considered
Typical signs include pain and stiffness with walking, swelling, difficulty squatting or running, and shoe intolerance; bone spurs may develop and limit shoe wear. We perform a focused in‑clinic assessment and may recommend X‑rays or specialist referral when structural staging is needed. Surgery is reserved for persistent, function‑limiting pain and ranges from joint‑sparing procedures to fusion or replacement when the joint cannot be preserved.
Important points and risks
Assessment: our visit focuses on a thorough clinical assessment to identify mechanical drivers and rule out mimics.
Custom orthotics are the cornerstone for many patients and are most effective when combined with footwear changes and rehab. Our orthotics incorporate problem-specific modifications to improve function
Shockwave therapy can reduce pain but will not reverse established arthritis.
Delaying assessment increases the chance of progression to rigid deformity and more invasive treatment.
Book an in‑clinic assessment with a trusted Ontario registered chiropodist for your big‑toe pain and get a personalized orthotic and rehab plan. Take the right step forward!
