Innovation and Research in the Treatment of Hallux Limitus-Rigidus

In this study, through a literature review, we will examine the usefulness of intra-articular injections of corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in the conservative treatment of Hallux Limitus/Rigidus, a degenerative condition of the first metatarsophalangeal joint that limits dorsiflexion and impairs gait. After searching PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar and applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, the most relevant articles were selected. The results show that corticosteroids provide short-term symptomatic relief, especially in the early stages, with a benefit that rarely lasts longer than three months, while the evidence regarding PRP as a standalone injection is scarce and inconclusive, limited to a single study in which it was combined with surgery and an implant. PRP stands out, however, for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory potential. It is concluded that there are no high-quality studies directly comparing the two therapies, that the absence of standardized PRP protocols limits their reliability, and that randomized clinical trials are necessary to guide therapeutic decisions for this condition.