Functional hallux limitus
Functional hallux limitus is defined as a limitation in the range of motion of the first metatarsophlangeal joint when functioning (ie walking). It is not present on a normal weightbearing examination, where there is a full range of motion at the joint. The controversy surrounding functional hallux limitus is, is it a primary or a secondary problem? Does the functional hallux limitus occur first and cause the midfoot to collapse or does the midfoot collapse and this causes the functional hallux limitus? Both theories are rational and depending on your world view (ie root theory vs sagittal plane theory) as to which one you believe in. Unfortunately, the research is not much help either in deciding the primary or secondary nature of functional hallux limitus.
On a different note there has been an attempt to reconceptualise functional hallux limitus as one end of a continuum and consider functional hallux limitus, structural hallux limitus, hallux rigidus, and the various windlass dysfunction all as a problem of the shape of the dorsiflexion stiffness curve of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
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