In plain language
Degeneration of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with cartilage loss, osteophytes and restricted motion, often painful during toe extension and push-off.
Clinical Significance & Management
Symptoms, remaining motion and wear guide care. Wide, stiff or rocker-soled footwear, inserts and suitable analgesia may reduce stress. Persistent early dorsal impingement may suit cheilectomy; advanced arthritis may warrant fusion.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Pain/stiffness with push-off, hills or squatting
Dorsal prominence rubbing shoes and loss of motion
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Degeneration or previous articular trauma
- Anatomical, mechanical and familial factors
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Assess painful arc and remaining motion
Standing radiographs; acute hot swelling requires gout/infection consideration
Treatment Options
Footwear and load modification with appropriate pain relief
Joint-preserving surgery or fusion according to wear and goals
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Nonsurgical
Lower-irritation exercise and adjacent muscle strength
Postoperative
Cheilectomy and fusion differ; loading follows healing
Return
Restore gait adaptations and endurance before sport assessment
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Fusion relieves pain at the cost of joint motion. Replacement has implant and revision risks. Procedure selection must reflect individual priorities.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
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