Structural Integration – Vol. 39 – Nº 1

In this article I want to facilitate an enhanced awareness of major physiological conditions the body goes through that highly influence the internal and external organisation of pelvic structure and psoas function. Some of the bony and functional dysfunctions are protective patterns associated with organs ranging from kidneys to the ovaries and the prostate. These patterns allow for better organ function. If eliminated without first helping the inner tissues, this will cause an inflammatory episode of a chronic inflammation or malfunction of the organ. If treated with respect and care for all tissues, we can help the body to come to a higher level of reorganisation and recuperation of its own healing properties.

*Introduction* – In this article, I describe hallux rigidus and functional hallux limitus from a clinical perspective, as well as from my own experience with the condition, and my recent surgery and postoperative regimen for recovery. My wish is to educate practitioners so that they can potentially recognize budding symptoms in clients and address underlying conditions and causes, perhaps preventing the full onset of this debilitating condition. – * Pre-surgery Notes* From Figures 1a and 1b, the boney deformity and limit to my left foot’s range of motion (ROM) are apparent. The bunion (hallux valgus) is sizeable on the right foot (Figure 1a), but it gives me no pain in any direction of motion. On the left foot, Figure 1b shows that I was unable to hinge in big-toe extension at my first metatarsal-phalangeal (MTP) joint on that side. X-rays revealed it to be a hallux rigidus condition, an obstruction in the joint caused by spur growth limiting toe extension. Note that the shape of the bone spur reaches upwards, not sideways like the bunion on the right foot. This is one of the key identifiers of the condition, as well as ROM testing showing the restrictedness in extension, as in my case.

Author’s note: I would like to thank Hubert Godard for his vision in synthesizing a model of understanding that has contributed so much to Rolfing Structural Integration (SI), and for his help with this article. In Part 2 of the article, in a future issue, the relationship of the foot to the rest of the body will be discussed.

Life is only an idea until you feel it in your body. Zeb Lancaster