Hallux Rigidus

acdublin

Looking for advice having recently been diagnosed with hallux rigidus (essentially arthritis of the big toe). I know there are more serious conditions being discussed here so despite it being untreatable, I recognise it is very minor comparitively.

I'm trying to find a way of playing football with least amount of pain. I'm 34 and not ready to jack it in completely yet. I played at a fairly high level but now just want to get through an intense once a week 5 a side without hurting for days afterwards. Two problems: pain in movement at joint area of big toe and also pain on top when contact made with the ball. Anyone found an orthotic solution helpful or particular astro runners better than others or even a strapping/padding that assisted? Would love to hear from anyone who's experienced this and kept playing football.

Thanks, ac

Tropheus

Having had foot problems in the past with ongoing pain (plantar fasciitis), I understand that it's no joke and very debilitating. I got a bio-mechanical assessment and found that I needed orthotics which helped greatly. I was also given a series of stretching exercises that have also helped.

It may be worth looking at as there could be something else going on that's exacerbating the problem. Even advice as to the type of shoes that you should be wearing could help. This is the guy I've used for years. I've no connection other than being a happy patient.

http://kirkfieldfootclinic.com/