Salt Lake City Hallux Rigidus

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Are you having a hard time bending your big toe? Does the stiffness in your big toe cause you pain when walking? These are signs you may have Hallux Rigidus. Hallux Rigidus is a scientific name for a condition colloquially called stiff big toe.  

Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM treats stiff big toe so you can get your mobility back and stop the discomfort you feel.  Many people in and around Salt Lake City enjoy doing active recreational activities, and it is surprising how much Hallux Rigidus can affect your ability to get around.  You should make an appointment with Dr. Auger to find out today how she can use her experience as a skilled foot doctor to treat your condition.

Suffering from Hallux Rigidus in Salt Lake City?

Hallux Rigidus is a common form of arthritis that affects the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP joint). All joints in the foot, including the MTP joint, are supposed to be surrounded by articular cartilage. Unfortunately, sometimes this cartilage is damaged due to wear-and-tear or trauma. When there is no cartilage to provide a cushioning or buffer, raw ends of bone rub together.  This can result in bone spurs, which is an overgrowth that forms on the bone’s top.

Once the overgrowth has formed, it may stop the big toe from bending. The big toe must bend every time a step is taken, so Hallux Rigidus could actually significantly impact your ability to walk.

How Does Dr. Auger Treat Hallux Rigidus?

If you suspect that you have Hallux Rigidus, you should still visit a podiatrist to get your diagnosis confirmed and to start a course of treatment.  Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM is an experienced foot doctor who can correctly diagnose your hallux rigidus and offer you a variety of treatment options.  

Non-surgical treatment is generally the first step and includes anti-inflammatory medications; ice and rest; selecting the correct shoes and foot supports, and using contrast baths, alternating hot and cold water to reduce inflammation.  Custom orthotics are commonly used to alleviate the pain of hallux rigidus and to improve joint function.

Various surgical procedures may also be performed, including removing bone spurs that impact movement; fusing bones together if cartilage damage is severe; or even joint replacement surgery.

Contact  Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM Today

If you are suffering from hallux rigidus, Dr. Auger can provide treatment at one of three convenient Salt Lake City locations in West Jordan, Millcreek, and Sandy.  Contact Dr. Auger today to find out how she can put her extensive experience as a podiatrist to work to help your foot heal. Call (801) 619-2170 to schedule your same day appointment.