Osteoarthritis is a progressive degradation of the cartilage that covers the bones and allows a harmonious sliding of the articular surfaces. The friction causes the formation of bony bones (osteophytes) at the level of the big toe (Hallux) causing its progressive stiffness (rigidus).
The osteophytes form a bump on the top of the joint also called Dorsal Bunion.
The main causes are :
- a particular morphology known as "Egyptian foot" (big longer toe)
- the intensive practice of certain sports such as football or running
- other causes are less frequent : trauma, rheumatism, and infections.
Below, an animation for more info (in French)
Before a consultation, an X-ray should be performed to assess the condition of your joint. Inquire in advance is mandatory in order to perform the most suitable examination.
Treatment options
Medical Treatment
To relieve the painful phenomena, medical treatment can include analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications, wearing an orthopedic sole and an adapted rehabilitation aimed at loosening the joint and strengthening the muscles and tendons. Where appropriate, significant weight loss may be considered.
Nevertheless, as a degenerative disease, medical treatment can only temporarily relieve you, if the functional gene becomes too large, a surgical consultation should be considered in order to determine the most appropriate treatment for your case.
Conservative treatment
This procedure, which does not include fixation by screws or spindles, consists mainly in removing the upper bone duct, responsible for the conflict.
If the toe is too long, an osteotomy can be performed to make the joint more anatomically oriented and to limit compression stresses.
Arthrodesis
This intervention consists in fusing the metatarsal with the first phalanx
This technique, generally well supported, allows to wear as usual and to recover an identical level of sport practice.
Joint prosthesis
This involves replacing the joint with prosthetic implant
