How do you treat a sprained metatarsophalangeal joint?

Treatment is with icing, rest and anti-inflammatory medication. Taping of the big toe and a stiff insole insert in the shoe may help prevent recurrent hyperextension of the toe. Shoes that are too flexible predispose to the injury.

What is the MPJ joint?

The metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP joints) are the joints between the metatarsal bones of the foot and the proximal bones (proximal phalanges) of the toes. They are condyloid joints, meaning that an elliptical or rounded surface (of the metatarsal bones) comes close to a shallow cavity (of the proximal phalanges).

What is metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis of the MTP joint is the name given to arthritis which gives pain in the “big toe joint”. This also causes the affected joint to become stiff. The process of osteoarthritis involves wearing or thinning of the smooth cartilage joint surfaces as well as stiffening to the soft tissue surrounding the joint.

How long does it take for an MTP joint to heal?

First Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) Joint Sprain Anatomy Typically ligaments around the MTP can become sprained, and the joint surface can be inflamed. Ligament injuries such as this can take around 6-12 weeks to heal depending on the severity of the sprain.

Is walking good for osteoarthritis?

Exercise, including walking, can be beneficial for osteoarthritis patients. Exercise can help to reduce pain and increase quality of life. Lack of exercise can lead to more joint stiffness, muscle weakness and tightness, and loss of joint motion.

What causes pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the foot?

Pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint or Metatarsalgia is a common musculoskeletal condition which is usually observed when abnormal foot biomechanics and long-standing stress deteriorates the anatomical balance of foot.

How to tell if you have metatarsal joint pain?

Almost all cases of metatarsal joint pain presents with localized pain, difficulty in walking or just difficulty in maintaining normal day-to-day activities. Patients also report tenderness along the top and bottom surfaces of the foot with limited range of joint motion.

What kind of shoes help with metatarsophalangeal joint pain?

Shoes with rocker sole modifications may also help. For functional hallux limitus, orthosis modifications may further help to plantarflex the 1st ray to improve metatarsophalangeal joint motion and reduce pain.

When do you need surgery for metatarsophalangeal pain?

For more severe limitation of 1st metatarsophalangeal motion or pain, the use of rigid orthoses, carbon fiber plates, or external shoe bars or rocker soles may be necessary to reduce motion at the joint. Surgery may be needed if conservative therapies are ineffective.