Shoes | Physiotherapy for hallux rigidus

Shoes

There are many ways to adjust the shoes to support the therapy of hallux rigidus. Shoes with a roll-off sole are a good way to ensure a physiological gait pattern when the joint function is suspended. A buffer heel can also be placed under the shoe in such a way that the impact load during gait is absorbed. In consultation with the health insurance company, costs for the manufacture of orthopedic footwear may be covered. Ideally, this should be determined on the basis of a gait analysis.

Rail

Splints are particularly useful when the toe also deviates from its central position, e.g. inwards (the hallux valgus, often occurs together with the hallux rigidus). There are splints that fix the toe in a neutral position and thus ensure the most physiological joint load possible. Such splints are also suitable for posture correction.

However, this is a passive change. In order to ensure active stabilization of the position, the patient should try to maintain an active posture.There is a variety of different splints that should be individually adapted. In the following articles, methods and techniques for self-stabilization are listed and described.

  • Spiral Dynamics
  • PNF

Bandage

A support bandage can also help to reduce the symptoms of hallux rigidus. The bandage is often softer and more flexible than an insole or splint and can therefore be used in many different ways, e.g. in different types of footwear. Of course, due to its flexibility, the support provided by the bandage is less. However, it can be very useful and easy to use for mild symptoms. In the long term, a bandage treatment may not be sufficient and a splint or shoe adjustment should be considered.

Spring

For the treatment of hallux rigidus, roll-on insoles with a spring supply are suitable. The spring supply allows a buffered, physiological rolling motion and can thus also protect the other joints. The foot can be supported in a targeted manner and small metal springs are built into the foot orthosis in the area where the force is absorbed in order to enable a pain-free, physiological gait pattern by subjecting the joint to less pressure. The disadvantage of the Hallux rigidus spring is that the insole has to be custom-made and can usually only be worn with a pair of shoes. It is therefore more effective but less flexible in everyday use.