Friday, June 12, 2009

Functional Hallux Limitus

If anyone is interested, this is my problem...

Hallux limitus, by definition, is a decrease in sagittal plane dorsiflexion of the hallux at the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) when the foot is in a weightbearing or simulated weightbearing position.

Normal range of dorsiflexion motion of the first MPJ should be 65 to 75 degrees in order to allow for a normal gait. Near the end of the propulsive phase of gait (when you push off your big toe), the leg has a 45-degree position to the floor and the ankle is in about 20 degrees of plantarflexion to the leg. This position requires the hallux to be able to dorsiflex 65 degrees. Anything less requires accommodation or adaptation from the surrounding joints. This compensation can come from gait changes, such as subtalar joint supination and walking on the outside of the foot, subtalar joint pronation with foot abduction, etc.

We often speak of functional versus structural hallux limitus. A decrease in joint motion in the loaded and unloaded foot is structural hallux limitus. In regard to functional hallux limitus, there is limitation only when the foot is weightbearing or loaded.

Believe it or not, after 2 hours now with Dr. Hasenback, I actually understand the above 3 paragraphs in detail and can explain it to someone else. This is what you get with Dr. H. I'm very pleased with the service I got with Spine & Sports and pleased with the prescribed treatment and the fact that they take the time to explain everything they are doing or are proposing to do. Plus, they have a money back, no questions asked, guarantee. Basically, they see what I am paying them to treat me as an investment. Like any investment, the investor (me) expects to get back MORE than they put in. If after the proposed course of action is taken, I do not feel like I received a satisfactory return on my investment, they will give me a no questions asked refund and then refer me to someone they think can help me. That's bold.

4 comments:

TX Runner Mom said...

Huh? I hope it works!

The Comfort Shoe Report said...

The Cluffy Wedge does a tremendous job with Functional Hallux Limitus (FHL).

It's a small wedge placed directly underneath the big toe, that adheres to the insole or orthotic inside a running or walking shoe.

The wedge provides enough clearance to "unlock" the big-toe-joint, and re-establish normal foot function.

More info can be found at www.cluffy.com, or by doing a google/youtube search on "Cluffy Wedge".

catz said...

I use the cluffy wedge and have less heel and low back pain. I am a walker. I went to buy 4 more pair for other shoes. Would highly recommend it! go to cluffy.com

Dr. Clough said...

This is Dr. Clough, the inventor of the Cluffy Wedge. THis is a ver effective way to treat FHL, which is present in most people. This is one of those sleeper conditions that is usually there, but seldom recognized and addressed. Hats off to the physicians that recognize and treat this condition as it is insidious and unless addressed will continue to plague the athlete with injury and decreased performance.
The Cluffy Wedge is so simple that some think it is not effective. It is simple and effective, that is the beauty of it. To learn more about how the Cluffy Wedge works see this video : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gn7UqZDX0yM
or check out this testimonial,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ei5yXVlrsaU.