Been suffering with pain and increasing stiffness in the joints at the base of my big toes (1st MTP joint for the anatomically well-versed) for about the last 5 years probably. Up until the other night it's always just been a bit of pain the day after and hasn't interfered with me playing or doing anything else. Played on Tuesday though and I was in pain at rest the next day with a lot of pain on walking. Seen the GP today and they think I have what is in the title. Been referred for an X-ray to see exactly what the damage is. Just wondering if anyone else has had this and what their experience has been. The GP was not optimistic about my badminton playing future but obviously he's not a specialist and some of the stuff online seems more positive. I'd be really gutted if it meant I had to quit so please guys, give me some good news!
Hi! I can offer you some good news! I have hallux rigidis (and I'm only 24, it runs in the family), and while it limits the amount of time I can play for (I max out at about 4 hours straight of double), the pain doesn't necessarily get worse, just peaks and holds. Also, there are orthodic insoles that can help stabilize your whole foot (elevated first metatarsal is the main cause of HR), thus putting less pressure on your toe joints. Once you decide to retire from badminton (think age 60-75) you can get surgery to fuse the joint and remove all pain. Also, toe joint replacement is continuing to improve, so there is hope!
