Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, Ultimately, this condition causes the bones to rub against each other without any cushion, leading to pain, stiffness and loss of joint movement. One of the most common sites treated at our Glasgow Podiatry clinic  is great toe (Hallux) joint osteoarthritis. This is a painful condition that affects the big toe joint, which in the most extreme cases leads to disability due to severe pain and lack of range of motion.

Arthritis of the big toe joint, also known as great toe joint degenerative joint disease, is typically due to a combination of biomechanics and trauma. The risk of most osteoarthritis cases increase as a person ages, and repetitive strain along with wear and tear the affected toe joint may be unable to heal damaged cartilage on its own. Sadly, patients are more likely to develop OA if they have a family history of the condition or if they are obese.

Symptoms of Great Toe Joint Osteoarthritis

People have a lot to do these days, and it is nearly impossible to get anything done without having fully functional feet and toe joints. Great toe joint degenerative joint disease may present a number of alternating symptoms with varying degrees of discomfort. Patients we treat typically complain about:

• Pain and stiffness in the big toe joint following long activity or inactivity
• Swelling or immobility that results after repetitive use
• Inflammation and creaking of the toe joint
• Difficulty walking on or bending the toe

The first step is to have your foot analysed by a HCPC registered podiatrist. Our foot and ankle experts makes it clear that every patient should undergo a comprehensive physical examination and review of medical history to determine the cause of your foot pain.  

After diagnosis, there are a number of advanced therapy solutions that serve for chronic OA and pain.  

One of the advanced treatments we offer in clinic is Platelet rich plasma therapy. This is an advanced treatment technique.

Please book an appointment and we can discuss all your options.