What is it?

As the name implies it is a condition characterized by destruction of the cartilage in the joint of the great toe. It usually occurs in the older age group unless patients had a history of trauma or infection at an early age.

How does it present?

It can occur in patients who had a history of a painful stiff toe at an early age (Hallux Rigidus) or in patients with bunions, infections in the great toe or trauma to the joint. Patients present with significant pain especially during walking or running when the big toe pushes off the ground. Significant stiffness and swelling may also occur. In patients with bunions there will also be a deformity of the joint . Pressure areas can exist both on the bottom or side of the great toe. Tenderness over the tendon of the big toe can occur during movement.

What treatment strategies are available?

Pain killers, physiotherapy and a stiff sole platform can help alleviate the pain. Removing bony prominences may also help against stresses to the tendons. Fusion of the great toe to arthroplasty(joint replacement) are options available. Many factors such as the extent of the arthritis ,age of the patient and congruency of the joint will influence the surgical option.