Hallux rigidus is a problem associated with the big toe joint. This problem comes into existence with the pain and stiffness in the joints, which cause a problem in walking or standing for a long time. It generally occurs in the age group beyond 65 years.In Ayurveda, it is known as sandhigatavata, which mainly occur due to Vata dosha, though pitta and Kapha doshas are also involved in the origin of this disease. The affliction in rasa-rakta (blood), mamsa (muscles, ligaments, and tendons) and ashti (joints and bones), due to any dosha lead to the joint problem or Hallux rigidus. If the person is taking unbalanced diet, the disturbance will appear in the metabolism (agnidushti) and circulation of endotoxins(ama). This will result in the deposition of vata around the joints of the toe and hence results in the Hallux rigidus. In this disease the wear-and-tear of toe joint can occur, if it is ignored in the early stages. This can lead to the advanced diseases and cannot be eradicated.
SYMPTOMS OF HALLUX RIGIDUS
Due to this disease, the person can experience many symptoms in big toe joint during activity, they are;
• Swelling surrounding the joint
• Pain in the afflicted joint/joints
• Redness around the joint
• Sharp noises or crepitus in joint while moving
• Stiffness around the big toe joint
CAUSES OF HALLUX RIGIDUS
• Heredity
• Unbalanced foot structure
• Simple jamming or inflammation in the joint, due to some traumatic incident
• Person with flat feet or low arches can easily develop hallux rigidus deformity
• Crouching sports and ballet
• Poor shoes
DIET AND LIFESTYLE IN HALLUX RIGIDUS
Hallux rigidus is a kind of arthritis. This can be prevented by consuming balanced diet and exercise. The diet and lifestyle changes in Hallux rigidus is given as below;
Food rich in omega-3 fatty acid
The diet of Hallux rigidus patient should be rich in omega-3 fatty acid. For that, one should add ground flax seed, fish oil, minimal-mercury tuna and salmon into the diet chart. Avoid the use of omega-6 fatty acid like sunflower, corn oil, and safflower, which are not healthy for the patient of Hallux rigidus.
Use of mono-unsaturated oil
Mono-unsaturated oils can be beneficial for the patient suffering from Hallux rigidus. It should be replaced by the routine refined oil used for cooking purpose.
Fibre rich diet
The fibre rich food reduces the inflammation in the body and increases the health of the body. The use of high fibre diet like flax seeds, smoothies, salad and shakes can contribute to good health in Hallux rigidus. The use of coconut flour can be done to increase the fibre in food.
Food rich in vitamin C
Various fruits can reduce inflammation in joints, these are namely blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, melon, kiwi fruit, peaches, mango, and apples.
Eat food rich in carotenoids
The presence of carotenoids is more in yellow/ orange fruits and vegetables. They are responsible for reducing inflammation in Hallux rigidus. These are squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots, which if consumed regularly can reduce the swelling in joints.
Food rich in antioxidants
The color in vegetables and fruits is due to the presence of powerful antioxidants. The anti-oxidant rich food can prove to be best for the person suffering from Hallux rigidus. These may include red grapes, mangos, pomegranate, blueberries, dark green leafy vegetables, red cabbage, broccoli, squash, sweet potatoes and carrots.
Rich food in calcium and vitamin D
The Hallux rigidus is a problem related to the bones, so the strength of bones is very important. The food rich in calcium is needed to relieve such kind of condition. The use of broccoli, spinach, collard greens, mustard greens and turnip greens can be done to prevent the problem of Hallux rigidus. The diet should include, sunflower seeds and wild-caught salmon. The moderate exposure to sunlight can also increase the vitamin D production, which helps the body in absorbing calcium.
Herbs
Many herbs like ginger, turmeric, and garlic possess powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These are known for boosting the immune system of the body, which proves to be beneficial for Hallux rigidus patient.
Exercises or yoga
Exercises in arthritis or Hallux rigidus can be performed to stay flexible.
Light exercises can help the patient of Hallux rigidus to maintain normal joint movement and relieve stiffness.
Some strengthening exercises can also be done to maintain or increase the muscle strength. If the muscles are strong they can support and protect affected joints by arthritis or Hallux rigidus.
Aerobic exercising, bicycle riding and swimming can also improve cardiovascular fitness and weight management. If the weight is controlled, it shows positive effect on the problem of Hallux rigidus because extra weight puts extra pressure on joints.
But above all, the exercising should be performed under the supervision of an expert practitioner, who can give you a better guideline about the exercises. The focus of physical therapy should be to protect the joints, while increasing strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
With above-written lifestyle and diet, the person can prevent or relieve the problem of Hallux rigidus. Various herbs are also beneficial in reducing the pain and inflammation in the case of Hallux rigidus.
Stay healthy with Ayurveda
AUTHOR BIO
DR. Vikram Chauhan, MD - AYURVEDA is an expert ayurvedic doctor based in Chandigarh, India and doing his practice in Mohali, India. He is spreading the knowledge of Ayurveda - Ancient healing treatment, not only in India but also abroad. He is the CEO and Founder of Planet Ayurveda Products, Planet Ayurveda Clinic, and Krishna Herbal Company. Website – WWW.PLANETAYURVEDA.COM
