M20: Acquired deformities of fingers and toes

M20.2: Hallux rigidus

The big toe consists of 2 toe bones. The two toe bones are connected to the metatarsal bone by a joint. The metatarsal bone is a long bone in the middle of the foot.

With arthrosis, the cartilage in the joint wears away. Cartilage covers the end of the bones that are connected to one another in the joint. Its smooth surface prevents the bones from rubbing against one another. With advancing age, the cartilage can wear away. This can happen more quickly if a joint is subjected to greater loads than usual.

Arthrosis can be accompanied by typical symptoms, such as pain in the joint. It may also no longer be possible to move the joint as usual.