Diagnosis and treatment of first metatarsophalangeal joint disorders. Section 2: Hallux rigidus.

Hallux rigidus is a progressive disorder of the first MTP joint, characterized by a diminished range of motion (ROM) and degenerative alterations of the joint (1–9). Because some degree of movement is generally available, the term hallux limitus (7) has been used to describe the condition, although the pathologic process is one of progressive degenerative joint disease secondary to biomechanical disturbance or local pathology (Fig. 1). Generally, a cyclic deterioration of the articulation and the reduction of motion occur, and ultimately, ankylosis with virtual absence of joint movement results (3, 10).