I sometimes recommend this Morton’s Extension Carbon Fiber insole to patients with severe big toe joint arthritis, a condition called advanced hallux rigidus, also known as stiff big toe. The joint where the big toe meets the foot loses its mobility and the pain can make it hard to walk or even stand, especially in damp and cold weather.

The stiffness is caused due to stress on the toe joint and it can happen after overuse in workers who squat a lot, athletes, after injuries like spraining the joint or stubbing the toe, as a result of genetics, joint inflammation and inflammatory diseases like gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

Stop the movement

This rigid carbon fiber shoe footplate prevents the painful movement of the arthritic big toe joint. The insert can either replace, go under or over the sock lines based on whatever is most comfortable. Usually this insert fits most sneakers given the right size is purchased.

Custom orthotics are much superior and will provide better results, but this is an option that works well as a "test run" to see if an orthotic would be beneficial. Or it can also be used while a patient is waiting for surgery.

If you have pain on your big toe as you push off when walking and that pain is getting worse, call 508-757-4003 or TEXT 508-625-7775 for an appointment, in Worcester or Westborough.