Hallux disorders

1. What is a metatarsal phalangeal (MTP) sprain? What are the symptoms?
2. What is hallux valgus?
3. What is hallux rigidus? What are the symptoms?
4. What are the treatment for hallux disorders?

Answers:
1. Acute injury to the ligaments and capsule of the MTP joint, also called "turf toe". Symptoms include acute onset of pain, tenderness, swelling in MTP jt on plantar surface, with pain on passive DF.
2. Lateral deviation of the first toe greater than the normal ankle of 15 degrees, which may lead to bunion.
3. Degeneration of first MTP jt, leading to pain and stiffness (arthritis). Symptoms include pain, swelling, and decreased ROM of MTP jt.
4. RICE, taping, proper footwear. For rigidus, may require surgical debridement.