Degeneration of the 1st metatarsal-phalgeal joint (Behind the big toe)

Degenerative arthritis is a condition that slowly wears away joints (joint "wear and tear"). In the beginning, you may notice that the affected joint seems stiff, or may ache. Cartilage is the shock absorber of a joint. As the joint lining (cartilage) breaks down, (thins--a natural process of aging), or (suddenly tears-injury), the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Over time, bone spurs (small pieces of rough or splintered bones) grow as damaged bones attempt to repair themselves. The joint's range of motion becomes limited. To learn the cause of your joint problem, your doctor asks about your medical history. Your doctor also examines your feet for skin changes and swelling. The range of motion in any joint affected by arthritis may be tested as well. With a simple hands-on test. Imaging teste, e.g., x-rays show damage to bone, MRI can show damage to the joint lining.

Other types of arthritis, e.g., gouty arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, are characterized with alternating periods of remission, in which symptoms disappear, and exacerbation, marked by the return of inflammation, swelling, stiffness and pain. The diagnosis of which form of arthritis is important to effective treatment. If the inflammation of an arthritic disease isn't treated, bone and joint damage can result, which makes the joints difficult to move. Imaging tests, e.g., X-rays show damage to bone, MRI can show damage to the joint lining.

TREATMENT
The objectives of treatment for arthritis are controlling inflammation, preserving joint function, and curing the disease, if possible. Arthritis is treated in many ways:
*Physical therapy, exercise programs, functional orthotics, nutrition, analgesics, injections, anti-inflammatory medication, and surgery are commonly utilized to ease movement and reduce pain. Implants for the 1st Metatarsal- phalangeal joint can also be utilized for a more functional result.