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Main Boards => General Walking Discussion => Topic started by: Asomodai on 21:53:17, 02/03/18

Title: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Asomodai on 21:53:17, 02/03/18

Hello all.


I am feeling pretty distressed!


I discovered today after an MRI result that I have degenerative cartilage in my right foot 1st metatarsal. This was probably always going to happen eventually but it was made prominent after acute trauma (Playing indoor football on hard court). I am awaiting a further X-Ray and referral to a podiatrist.


I am starting to panic about what I can and cannot do, I already have been doing things to slow degeneration (Thinking this was a sesamoid injury), such as extra wide Trail runner footwear with thick inner soles, an orthotic to relieve the pain which to an extent has worked. I am planning to lose some weight as well.



I have only in the past few years started up long distance coastal walking. I took a break from it last year, but I love nothing more then walking 30+ miles per day 7+ days in succession whilst carrying camping gear. I usually pack lightweight (About 7-8kg).


Basically I am wondering if I would be able to continue doing this without progressing the degeneration and causing further pain? I am worried I wont be able to climb the steep cliffs of the South West Coastal path. I have already come to terms with giving up football and other high impact sports. Have you been able to prevent Rigidus Hallux despite having Osteoarthritis? There is already a small bump on the side of my metatarsal, though it is not painful at the moment. Would walking poles or a stick help in this instance?


Thank you for listening!

Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Ridge on 22:25:50, 02/03/18
Very sorry to hear your news Asomodai but asking a group of strangers on line about your health...
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jimbob on 22:28:10, 02/03/18
Yep better off asking the physio at the hospital.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Asomodai on 22:30:07, 02/03/18

Very sorry to hear your news Asomodai but asking a group of strangers on line about your health...


Unfortunately my doctor was not able to advise me on the ramifications of long distance coastal walking.


I am just wondering if other people have continued coastal walking long distances whilst suffering from Osteoarthritis of the big toe successfully.

Hopefully the podiatrist will help me, though it may be some time before getting a referral and appointment.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jimbob on 22:43:33, 02/03/18
I have severe arthritis on my left foot as well as plantar fascists.  Exercise  in general and in my case particularly lng distance walking has had no adverse affect.  In fact if anything getting properly fitted for boots and doing the exercise has led to less pain. Nw I do not know if that is down to the exercise or the boots and the orthotic insoles but it works for me. My physio told me I can have pain and drugs with arthritis or pain and good health it was up to me which I chose.  I chose walking and losing weight. I still get severe twinges but as far as I am aware I would get those anyway. But I feel better health wise,  mentally and as if I am in control of my pain so to speak. Plus I have seen bits of our country I never knew existed.  Not many people outside this forum and it's like realise just how wonderful and uninhabited our so called overcrowded Island is. Get guidance  from a professional and if you can get out there and do it. You may have a time when you are unable to, but get some memories stored up for that time.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Asomodai on 22:46:07, 02/03/18

I have severe arthritis on my left foot as well as plantar fascists.  Exercise  in general and in my case particularly lng distance walking has had no adverse affect.  In fact if anything getting properly fitted for boots and doing the exercise has led to less pain. Nw I do not know if that is down to the exercise or the boots and the orthotic insoles but it works for me. My physio told me I can have pain and drugs with arthritis or pain and good health it was up to me which I chose.  I chose walking and losing weight. I still get severe twinges but as far as I am aware I would get those anyway. But I feel better health wise,  mentally and as if I am in control of my pain so to speak. Plus I have seen bits of our country I never knew existed.  Not many people outside this forum and it's like realise just how wonderful and uninhabited our so called overcrowded Island is. Get guidance  from a professional and if you can get out there and do it. You may have a time when you are unable to, but get some memories stored up for that time.


From what I gather, you already had severe arthritis and you began walking after that diagnosis? How long has it been since the diagnosis til now?


Thanks for sharing your experience! I guess I need some positive stories.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: sussamb on 07:26:07, 03/03/18
I have it in both my big toes after 25 years in Army boots and an injury to one toe.  About 5 years ago it got painful and I had steroid injections for a while but now I no longer get any pain.  I've walked all my life and done a few long distance walks, including the Pennine Way and Offa's Dyke.  No reason why it should affect your walking.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jimbob on 07:43:51, 03/03/18
I started walking after heart valve replacement as a result of the cardiovascular physiotherapy.  That was when I discovered a serious problem with my foot. The physio recommended exercise and getting properly fitted footwear, so continued walking.  I have done the PW , Cleveland Way, Viking Way the Camino Frances amongst others. I do get pain but I am active, my heart is healthier than it has ever been and I put up with my foot.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: phil1960 on 08:01:18, 03/03/18
I have it in my left big toe joint. I have a bone spur on the top and get occasional pain. I tried a custom made orthotic which made no difference at all, what did and has helped though is buying a pair of Altberg boots 3 years ago, the extra stiffness means the toe doesn’t bend so much. They are quite heavy so I’m not so nimble footed now, but I get very little trouble with it and my walking is pretty much unaffected.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Glyno on 17:52:56, 03/03/18
Very sorry to hear your news Asomodai but asking a group of strangers on line about your health...


I really don't find it unusual for someone to come onto a walking forum to ask likeminded folk for help or advise about a condition affecting his/her hobby.


@Asomodai, sorry I can't be of help but good luck.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Flanners on 17:13:03, 04/03/18
I have it in my ankle after a bad break from a motorcycle accident a fair few years ago, I road cycle and walk a lot which does cause pain and discomfort at times. I find that exercise and manipulation helps as do the following daily supplements of Tumeric, fish oil, rosehip and glucosamine
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Mel on 17:19:02, 04/03/18
Thread hijack...


Mmm.. turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory isn't it Flanners?  Cheers for that - I'm off to make a curry and cure my tendon problem  O0


Back on topic ...
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: tonyk on 21:45:56, 04/03/18
 It is possible to walk long distances without the big toe so if things get too bad its always worth considering amputation.I had gout that was very painful a few years ago and would have considered having the toe amputated if the pain had not cleared up.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jontea on 22:11:55, 04/03/18
Have a read of my blog  O0


http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1 (http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1)
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Jac on 12:03:43, 05/03/18
Have a read of my blog  O0
http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1 (http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1)

Wow Jon, that is the most down to earth and positive medical blog I have ever read. Can only be helpful and confidence boosting to anyone (me) who becoming worried about 'big toe joint' pains. Thank you
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jontea on 14:06:53, 05/03/18
Wow Jon, that is the most down to earth and positive medical blog I have ever read. Can only be helpful and confidence boosting to anyone (me) who becoming worried about 'big toe joint' pains. Thank you
Thanks Jac, sorry to hear this is a problem for you also, but remember there is always a solution, don’t put up with pain indefinitely. I only hope the original poster comes back to the thread and reads my blog.


It was a long road through the NHS and took two years to get the op, but they did a superb job of my toe joint.


It’s almost two years since the operation and my toe feels absolutely normal, I don’t even think about my toe when I’m out walking now, very happy with the results  O0

Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: NeilC on 20:01:02, 05/03/18
I've got arthritis of the big toe joint. I bent my toe down really hard at judo, it went black and then the arthritis started. Must have been about 5 years ago and it's swollen up and makes buying boots a complete nightmare. Anything that pushes on it even slightly goes from comfortable to medieval-level torture over an hours or so. I must have tried every flipping boot in the UK. I even worse sandals in the snow last year cos I couldn't find anything.


But on the upside, now I've found some boots that work better I can actually handle it and it hasn't stopped me walking.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: jontea on 13:15:16, 26/03/18
I've got arthritis of the big toe joint. I bent my toe down really hard at judo, it went black and then the arthritis started. Must have been about 5 years ago and it's swollen up and makes buying boots a complete nightmare. Anything that pushes on it even slightly goes from comfortable to medieval-level torture.
Sounds like you damaged cartilage and now getting bone friction :(


Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: RogerA on 13:24:31, 26/03/18
I know this is a very different condition but I wonder whether the solution my doctor gave me might help.

I have a number of hammer toes - effectively when I step the toe wont come down flat but rather the mid joint forms an arch. This makes it feel as though I've got a small marble or piece of grit stuck under the toe directly under the joint. Mostly ignorable but on a long walk gets very painful.

What my doctor suggested to me to was to get some durapore tape and strap the problem toe loosely to the one next to it to encourage it to stay extended. Its a simple solution and completely resolves my symptoms.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Troggy on 09:19:07, 27/03/18
You know what, Asomodai, I'm chuffed you had the courage to open up your concerns about the problems you are facing; because it's been brilliant to read some very supportive and useful posts. I'm sure they'll have given you optimism that your days of walking and enjoying life are nowhere near finished.

I've some problems with both big toes; and I don't know whether it's arthritis or just my age and there's nothing I can do about it. Well, after reading some of the posts on here, especially yours JohnT, it's given me a boost to see if there is something that can be done. I've just had the nails of both big toes partially removed and that'll take about six weeks to repair the skin. I couldn't believe how big the pieces of nail were that had been removed. So that's a start. The posts have certainly given me some optimism that all is not over, by any means.

Good luck and I hope that you are reassured more now, that you'll have a long life of walking, ahead. 
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: sussamb on 09:52:59, 27/03/18
I've got arthritis of the big toe joint. I bent my toe down really hard at judo, it went black and then the arthritis started. Must have been about 5 years ago and it's swollen up and makes buying boots a complete nightmare.


Did the same during a 'friendly' hand to hand combat session in the Army, guy landed on my foot and bent the toe the wrong way. Took about a year to heal but got painful when walking 6 years or so ago.  Steroid injections from my GP helped but now the toe has fused completely so I'm pain free  O0
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Canadawalker on 16:28:09, 04/05/18
I have arthritis of the big toe on both feet.  I use Voltorol (sp) and really good shoes.  I was lucky to find a pair of North Face that have been a godsend.  I also have to loosen the laces because of a halux valgus.


I have been able to continue walking thanks to good hiking boots as well.


Shoes are the key!  That and the odd anti inflammatory.   :)
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Asomodai on 10:55:06, 18/05/18
Have a read of my blog  O0


http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1 (http://johntrowsdale.blogspot.co.uk/2017/02/the-cheilectomy.html?m=1)


Thanks for posting this. Hopefully I will be able to get a cheilectomy when needed.


A minor update. I have been referred to a Podiatrist. Though I have been waiting 2-3 months for a phone call to discuss an appointment time.


I have managed a couple of short walks (11 miles each) without massive discomfort. I am still in the Limitus Hallux phase. I do feel I am getting a loss of mobility in the toe, its slow but it is there.


I bought a pair of still soled boots that were wide enough to accomodate my triangular feet. I had no issues with the shoe rubbing on the bunion, but I found my toe automatically bending when going over rough terrain. I still feel far more comfortable in my New Balance trail runners. The mesh doesnt cause discomfort against the bunion. However the sole is very flexible.


At the moment I am planning 2X160 mile walks on the SWCP this summer (Continuing on from the 180 miles I did a couple of years ago). Hopefully I will be able to finish off the remaining 170 miles next year.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Asomodai on 11:59:58, 20/07/18
Last one now.


Just been back from my referral. Its definite Hallux Limitus going into Rigidus, Stage 3 arthritis. At the moment I am foregoing treatment as the pain is not that bad, i am going to tackle 2 170 mile stretches of the South West Coast this summer and see where I am in terms of the pain.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Doddy on 21:06:52, 24/07/18
If the big toe problem is mild there is some useful Turf toe exercises/treatment on YouTube. I am no expert. A Chiropractor said just avoid over stimulating the toe joint by wearing shoes that rub at the affected joint. I have skinny feet and  put a Compeed or similar over the ridge just behind the big toe to stop any rubbing. I don't wear boots even in the winter so I choose a Trail shoe which has only fabric over that ridge; many shoes have a fabric joint/band just where you don't want it.
Title: Re: 32 years old and just been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the big toe.
Post by: Troggy on 17:33:21, 26/07/18
I've just had a look at some of those youtube entries and they were very informative. I've just self referred to see a NHS Podiatrist and hopefully I'll then find out what the problem is and what can be done about it. Certainly, the idea of trainers with mesh uppers is an attractive option. I've looked at a nuimber of walking shoes and most of them that I've checked out, have a rigid sort of cap, toe guard thing that just isn't comfortable for me. It just shows how important it is to seek information/treatment rather than just trying different brands out with the hope of finding a comfortable one.
I'll have to wait but I'm glad I've at least begun the process, so it's mainly sandals for the time being.