"It's just foot pain… right?" It starts as a dull ache in the arch. Or maybe a sharp twinge under the heel. You try changing your shoes. Maybe add some padding. But nothing really works, and now your knee or hip is starting to feel a bit off too. Here's what most people (and even some clinicians) miss: The big toe is often the root of it all. When your big toe doesn't move well, especially during walking, it disrupts something called the windlass mechanism. This is a natural system that tightens the arch and stabilises the foot as you push off. But in cases of functional hallux limitus, the big toe can move when tested… yet doesn't move properly when you walk. So what happens? ❌ Poor push-off ❌ Collapsing arch ❌ Overloading of other joints ❌ Compensations all the way up the chain It's a small joint, but a massive deal. That's why a proper foot and gait assessment always includes the big toe. Because when it doesn't function well, nothing else does either. Don't overlook the big toe, it could be the key to fixing the bigger picture. The Sharp Physio Team #footpain #heelpain #plantarfasciitis