A Guide to Managing Toe Arthritis

Walking, standing, and participating in many daily activities are all dependent on your big toe. The big toe of your foot absorbs forces that are almost twice your weight when you walk, causing it to be susceptible to damage as a result of overuse.

The biggest toe joint in your foot suffers from toe arthritis, so you usually feel pain when pushing off to walk. Toe joint cartilage wear and tear is what causes hallux rigidus, also known as a rigid toe.

Walking, standing, and doing weight-bearing activities like climbing stairs can be difficult due to inflammation and stiffness associated with toe arthritis. When toe arthritis is treated, it can slow the progression of the disease, minimize symptoms, and reduce the likelihood of developing secondary symptoms such as ankle pain caused by an abnormal gait.

At All in One Foot Care Center, Dr. Arshia Roohian provides diagnosis and treatment in Irvine or Laguna Woods, California. Based on a thorough physical examination, health history, and the results of diagnostic tests like X-rays, Dr. Arshia Roohian recommends the best treatment for your symptoms.

In general, Dr. Roohian advocates for conservative treatment over invasive treatment. Before considering surgery, consider these five tips for managing toe arthritis.

Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs include over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, as well as prescription medications like celecoxib, diclofenac, and nabumetone. Inflammation, stiffness, and pain associated with arthritis can be relieved by these drugs.

An NSAID blocks the production of hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins by enzymes called cyclooxygenases. Inflammation and pain are caused by prostaglandins.

The most common way to take NSAIDs is by mouth, but they are also available as topical treatments applied directly to the skin over the painful joint. A topical NSAID may be appropriate if only your toe is affected by arthritis since it avoids your body being exposed to the side effects of NSAIDs. NSAIDs may cause kidney damage, ulcers, and high blood pressure when used long-term.
Stretch your toes
Performing toe-stretching exercises can increase flexibility, extend the range of motion, and relieve pain. Toe stretches may slow the progression of toe arthritis if performed during the early stages.

Toe exercises are prescribed by Dr. Arshia Roohian according to your condition. Additionally to toe stretches, you may wish to strengthen the muscles that support the good foot and lower limb alignment.
Choose shoes that are more comfortable
At the base of your big toe, arthritis can cause cartilage degeneration and bone spurs in addition to pain and inflammation. It can be uncomfortable to wear some shoes if you have a bump on the top of your foot, such as a callus or bunion.

The right fit is important when shopping for toe arthritis shoes. Stability can be improved by cushioning, arch support, and a rigid sole.

Shoes with a narrow toe box are less likely to contribute to toe arthritis pain and inflammation since friction causes pain against any bumps, calluses, or bunions. A pair of heels that is two inches or higher can cause pressure on the big toe and lead to toe arthritis because they position the foot at an unnatural angle.

When you purchase shoes, you should have your feet measured to ensure a proper fit. When shopping for shoes, look for the following qualities if you have toe arthritis:

** Bunions, deformed joints, and hammertoes can all be accommodated by the wide toe box
** Toe box: square or round
** A stiff sole that bends only at the toes (where your foot bends)
** To provide stability and prevent friction, a shoe must have a stable heel counter (the side of the shoe that cups your heel).
** The ability to insert customized orthotics into removable insoles
** In order to avoid friction on the top of your toes, there should be extra depth or added depth
** No higher than two inches in the heel
You should wear custom orthotics
An orthotic is a shoe insert or heel that can help relieve foot pain. A custom orthotic is made from a mold or digital image of your foot.

Additionally to being made to fit your exact foot size and shape, custom orthotics can also be made to treat your specific condition, deformity, or type of arthritis.
Consider a Supartz injection
Viscosupplementation involves administering Supartz, a solution of sodium hyaluronate. Similar to the fluid that surrounds your joints, Supartz is a gel-like substance. To protect and lubricate the treated joint, it provides shock-absorbing properties.

The injection of Supartz is given directly into the arthritic toe joint. A series of weekly treatments are usually administered over a period of three to five weeks. Successful treatments can provide pain relief for up to 12 months.

Consider your treatment options for toe arthritis, because early intervention can slow disease progression. Contact one of our offices in Irvine or Laguna Woods, CA, or book an appointment online.