Francis Berger
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My Big Toe Is Connected To All My Other Physical Maladies

6/14/2020

3 Comments

 
Last summer I suffered an incredibly painful sacroiliac joint injury on the right side of my hip. Well, it turns the big toe on my left foot might be the source of that injury as well many of the other aches and pains I have had to endure for the last two or three years.

Though I have not received an official diagnosis yet, I am fairly certain I have hallux rigidus. The disorder affects the joint located at the base of the toe and, over time, causes the joint to stiffen, making it increasingly difficult to bend. It may not seem like a big deal, but my stiff toe altered my gait. To take the pressure off my left toe, I unconsciously allow my left foot to supinate and roll outwards. This in turn puts tremendous pressure on the right side of my hip, which led to the injury I mentioned above. 

Apparently, hallux rigidus is a progressive condition that does not respond much to conservative treatment methods. Regardless, I am going to see a specialist tomorrow to determine if anything other than surgery might remedy the disorder. I am all for regaining full mobility in my foot, but I am not enthusiastic about the idea of going under the knife, not even for something minor like this. 

But in the end, it's not minor at all. In fact, it's rather amazing how something so seemingly trivial can so negatively affect the rest of the body. I think that speaks volumes for systems in general. The malfunctioning of one small, apparently insignificant part can wreak havoc on the system as whole, especially over time.

​Now imagine how a system might be affected by many small parts malfunctioning simultaneously, or many small parts and a few larger parts going on the fritz at approximately the same time. After a while I assume the system would become overwhelmed and unable to cope. 

​Something to think about. 
3 Comments
Mike
6/20/2020 20:10:24

We are wonderful and fearfully created
And all the heaven. One fraction of a second + or - change every one else have consequences

Reply
stef
6/21/2020 23:14:38

We seem to have a lot in common. I had bilateral cheilectomy at the end of Jan (timed because I rightly saw the danger coming in from China). 30 min surgery. Off pain meds in two days. And back to full function (way better then before surgery, way lower pain, way better mobility, no more compensatory pain) in two weeks. Only trouble I've had is the scar itches like a mad monkey, even now. Grab my email and send a note if you want me to send resources I found most useful for the fast recovery. Best, /s.

Reply
Francis Berger
6/22/2020 10:12:19

Thank you for the encouraging comment, stef. I am going to see a specialist today to discuss my options. I will raise the possibility of surgery with him. If I decide to go ahead with it, I will certainly contact you regarding the resources you have so generously offered.

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