Question
I recently went to a podiatrist because I was having intermittent pain in my right big toe. Sometimes it would occur when I was sitting down or lying in bed as well as when walking. The podiatrist looked at the toe, flexed it with his hand, and said I had hallux limitus, or arthritis in the toe. He did not take an x ray; he said it would not change the treatment. He  fitted me for an orthotic, which I have just received. I am wearing it now for a few days, and am wondering if I should be wearing it all the time? I haven't felt the pain in a while.

I understand that the orthotic has a raised section by the toe to help the toe stay fixed in position, but what is the real benefit? Is this a progressive condition? Should I be switching it to all of my shoes and sneakers so I am always using it? I am 64 years old, and I walk briskly on  a treadmill each day for a half hour (about 2 miles). Thanks!

Answer
Dear David,

This Orthopedic Chicago Podiatrist located in West Loop 60661, Roscoe Village 60618, Ukrainian Village 60622, Elmhurst 60126 & Bartlett 60103 says,

Hallux Limitus may be a progressive arthritic deformity if the mechanical forces continue to act on that toe joint. For example, kneeling, kicking with that toe,etc. The orthotics should be worn for most, if not all your activities-because they should help decrease the forces that would aggravate your hallux limitus. If the activity causes return of pain, then the orthotic should be worn during that activity-and in an appropriate shoe.
Hope this helps & Good Luck!

Dr George Tsatsos, Svetlana Zats, Dr Mariano Rivera, Dr Massard & Dr Kurtz
Chicago 60661, 60618 & 60622, Elmhurst 60126, Bartlett 60103 Podiatrists
Board Certified swimming or wearing a knee bin Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661

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