Disorders of the first metatarsophalangeal joint - Diagnosis of great-toe pain

Disorders of the joint at the base of the hallux are common in active patie nts. Great-toe sprains (turf toe) can range from mild to severe with associ ated fractures. Hallux rigidus, a painful flexion deformity is often seen i n athletes who stress the joint repetitively. Heredity may predispose athle tes to hallux valgus (bunion) but improper footwear; injury, and hyperprona tion can also be implicated. Weight-bearing activities, climbing stairs, or wearing high-heeled shoes will aggravate sesamoiditis. Stress fractures, o steochondral defects, and gout are other causes of toe pain. X-rays are ess ential for accurate diagnosis. Nonoperative measures can reduce pain, but s urgery is an option for recalcitrant cases.