It is often difficult to define the boundary between idiopathic arthrosis and trauma. Thus, hallux rigidus and Freiberg-Köhler osteochondritis may be related to microtrauma, and considering the strenuous use to which the foot is put, it is perhaps surprising that osteoarthrosis is not more common. The wearing of poorly adapted shoes and the performing of unsuitable surgical procedures are examples of the abuse to which the evidently robust structures can be subjected. Arthroses are frequent in occurrence, and the failure of one particular component reverberates throughout the organ. Every plan for surgical management of arthrosis must embody a clear appreciation of any overall disturbance.
