Big toe arthritis is a painful foot condition that is difficult to treat conservatively. Using a carbon stabilizer plate rigid insole is often overlooked when treating. Limitation of the 1st MPJ (big toe joint) is also called Hallux Limitus and Rigidus. Most of the pain in Hallux Rigidus/Limitus occurs at heel lift which causes dorsiflexion ( bending up) at the 1st MPJ (big toe joint).
When the big toe (hallux) bends upward (dorsiflex) it should glide over the 1st metatarsal head. When there is arthritis in the big toe joint, the first metatarsal head jams into the 1st metatarsal head and a bony spur will occur on the top of the big toe joint (first MPJ). The 1st MPJ joint will also narrow and become stiff. Range of motion of the big toe joint will become painful. Over time, the 1st MPJ will narrow, become arthritic and painful.
Treating it with a carbon stabilizer plate insole will limit the painful range of motion in these patients with Hallux Limitus and Hallux Rigidus (big toe joint arthritis). Carbon foot rigid plates are extremely thin, about 2 mm thick which allows easy shoe placement. They are also simple to remove and place in different shoes. They usually are placed under the shoe's insole. Some shoes, the insole will have to be removed. The carbon material is rigid to limit forefoot range of motion. A typical carbon rigid plate will last several years. One can either use the carbon foot rigid insole as a stand alone treatment or in conjunction with other conservative treatments.
Teri Green
About Atlas Biomechanics: We are a woman owned sports medical manufacturer of carbon rigid foot plates.
