ABSTRACT
Hallux rigidus is characterized by osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, which leads to a restriction in motion about the joint. In particular, dorsiflexion of the joint is limited, often due to the formation of dorsal osteophytes. Following hallux valgus, hallux rigidus is the second most common pathologic condition associated with the first MTP joint. Symptoms associated with hallux rigidus include pain, rigidity, dorsal bunion, flexion deformity, and dorsal tilt of the first metatarsal head. These symptoms have led to a variety of names for the condition, including hallux flexus, hallux limitus, hallux dolorosus, metatarsus primus elevatus, and painful great toe. Kelikian has provided a thorough discussion of the history of hallux rigidus terminology.
