Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Hallux Rigidus
What is hallux rigidus?
Hallux rigidus, also called hallux limitus, is a condition where the big toe joint experiences a significant reduction in its range of movement, often due to joint degeneration or arthritis. This stiffness can make walking, running, or bending the toe difficult and painful. Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing hallux rigidus by helping to reduce pain, improve mobility, and maintain foot function, potentially delaying or avoiding the need for surgery.
How does hallux rigidus happen?
The range of motion of the big toe can gradually decrease over time due to biomechanical anomalies in walking or running. These abnormalities place excessive stress on the joint, prompting increased bone formation (osteophytes) around it. This extra bone growth progressively restricts movement, further limiting the toe’s ability to bend and function normally.
What are the symptoms of hallux rigidus?
The primary sign of hallux rigidus is a noticeable reduction in big toe joint movement. Pain often occurs during joint motion, particularly at the extremes of movement. Activities that involve significant big toe joint use, such as sprinting or dancing, can aggravate symptoms, and wearing high-heeled shoes may further contribute to discomfort.
- Swelling around the big toe joint
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest
- A bony bump on the top of the big toe joint
- Difficulty walking or pushing off with the affected foot
- Pain that worsens in cold or damp weather
What should I do if I have hallux rigidus?
You should book an appointment with a physiotherapist for assessment and treatment. If conservative measures fail to manage the pain effectively, surgical intervention on the joint may be required.
Physiotherapy treatment for hallux rigidus.
The physiotherapists at acephysiosports.com can diagnose and provide treatment for hallux rigidus. Physiotherapy focuses on reducing pain and is often combined with podiatry care. If conservative management techniques fail to provide relief, you may be referred for a surgical opinion. Physiotherapy treatment can include:
- Joint mobilisations to improve range of motion in the big toe
- Stretching exercises to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness
- Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle to improve support and stability
- Gait re-education to correct walking patterns and reduce joint stress
- Footwear advice to minimise pressure on the big toe joint
- Custom orthotics to improve foot biomechanics and offload the joint
- Pain relief modalities such as ultrasound or heat therapy
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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