ABSTRACT
Hallux rigidus (HR) is a term first used in 1888 to describe painful limitation of movement of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) of the big toe. The condition probably starts with repeated trauma to the big toe in adolescence, which produces a chondral defect on the metatarsal head between the apex of the dome and the dorsal margin of the articular surface. As the hallux is extended, abutment of the proximal phalanx against the defect causes pain. Later, osteophytes appear on the dorsal articular margin and form a mechanical block to extension. Further progression results in the characteristic radiographic appearances of osteoarthritis. Other contributory factors including osteochondritis dissecans, hyperextension of the flrst metatarsal and pronation of the forefoot have been suggested.
