Hallux Limitus is defined as a restriction in dorsiflexion of the hallux at the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ). In the past, treatment of hallux limitus has consisted primarily of attempts to restrict or completely limit motion at the affected joint. The philosophy of treatment described in the text below is to increase the available motion at the first metatarsaophalangeal joint.

Author: Minoo Hadjari Hollis, MD, Consulting Surgeon, Department of Surgery, Gulf Breeze Hospital
Hallux rigidus literally means "stiff great toe"; however, limitation of big toe motion is only 1 element of the range of symptoms that constitute the diagnosis of hallux rigidus. Hallux rigidus encompasses mild to severe degenerative arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. Symptoms can range from mild to disabling. The condition, which occurs in adolescents and adults, can be associated with a history of previous trauma, although many patients present without such a history.
Synonyms and related keywords: hallux flexus, hallux limitus, dorsal bunion, metatarsus primus elevatus, hallux dolorosus, winkle-picker's disease, dorsal bunion, stiff big toe, stiff great toe

National Guidelines Clearinghouse.
Guideline from the Academy of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Surgery intended for podiatrists

Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics
hallux rigidus results from degenerative changes at the first MTP joint; - this may be more disabling than hallux valgus, because pt is unable to achieve relief even when not wearing shoes; - it is a frequent complaint of runners; - there is limitation of motion and pain at the MTP joint of the great toe secondary to repetitive trauma and DJD; - because the great toe has limited dorsiflexion, puff of during ambulation can be painful; - loss of motion is due to new growth of bone around dorsal articular surface of first metatarsal head

Rural Nurse Organization Hallux Rigidus Clinical Resources

“Hallux rigidus” is a term accredited to Cotterill in 1887 and refers to degenerative disease of the first metatarsophalangeal joint with stiffness and deformity. It is the second commonest problem of the 1 st MTP joint (hallux valgus is first). Other terms in the literature include “hallux limitus” (used by podiatrists to refer to limited movement in the 1st MTPJ), “hallux flexus” (flexion deformity with reduced dorsiflexion) and “dorsal bunion”.

Hallux Rigidus Hallux Limitus Skier's Toe
Etiology: Traumatic arthritis of first metatarsophalangeal joint Occurs secondary to repeated dorsiflexion stress Results in restricted range of motion of great toe

Sports Medicine: Managing Hallux Rigidus In The Athlete - By Mark A. Caselli, DPM
Hallux rigidus is a painful and insidious condition that can lead to significant limitations in an athlete’s ability to perform. The condition is characterized by a limitation of motion in the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ), chiefly in the direction of dorsiflexion. This limitation of motion is caused by a reactive proliferation of bone along the dorsal aspect of the joint and is associated with painful, degenerative arthrosis of the first MTPJ.
There are an extensive number of conditions that can result in hallux rigidus (see “A Review Of Potential Hallux Rigidus Etiologies” below). Inflammatory conditions such as gouty, psoriatic or rheumatoid arthritis may lead to symptoms of pain and limitation of motion in the first MTPJ. Longstanding hallux valgus may also be associated with secondary degenerative joint changes.

Manipulation and injection for hallux rigidus IS IT WORTHWHILE?
M. C. Solan, J. D. F. Calder, S. P. Bendall From the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, England
M anipulation of the metatarsophalangeal joint and injection with steroid and local anaesthetic are widely practised in the treatment of hallux rigidus, but there is little information on the outcome. We report the results of this procedure carried out on 37 joints, with a minimum follow-up of one year (mean, 41.2 months). Patients with mild (grade-1) changes gained symptomatic relief for a median of six months and only one-third required surgery. Two-thirds of patients with moderate (grade-2) disease proceeded to open surgery. In advanced (grade-III) hallux rigidus, little symptomatic relief was obtained and all patients required operative treatment. We recommend that joints are graded before treatment and that manipulation under anaesthetic and injection be used only in early (grades I and II) hallux rigidus. J Bone Joint Surg [Br] 2001;83-B:706-8. Full text