Can I reduce / eliminate Toe flexion?

[pcleary00]

I have developed hallux rigidus, arthritis in both of my big toe joints. The effect of the condition is that it is extremely painful to flex my toes (toes up). I have only about 3 degrees of flexion, and it is somewhat painful now to row.

I am having surgery to clear them out this year, but it will not significantly improve flexion (maybe 8 degrees).

I was hoping that someone could give me advice on how I can row on my Concept 2 and eliminate toe flexion (or if this is even possible?).

Perhaps there are shoes or something I can do with my Rower.

I am hoping to stick with my rower because I love the workout. Also looking at an aridyne bike (yea I killed that name) as an alternative has I can safely eliminate flexion on a bike.

Any advice is much appreciated.

[jackarabit]

Bike shoes have rigid soles. Jack

[Rob]

Have you tried moving the foot stretchers up? That might help the angles at the catch.

You could probably try either some shims (thicker end at the heels) to change the foot stretcher angle (or weight lifting shoes with heel lifts) or something under the ball of the foot (like a rounded block of wood) so that your toes aren't touching anything.

That's just brain storming: I haven't tried any of it so none of the options would likely be ideal but might allow you to at least row.

[pcleary00]

Bike shoes have rigid soles. Jack

Thanks, I didn't even think of Bike shoes, but yea, they look like they might do the trick

[pcleary00]

Have you tried moving the foot stretchers up? That might help the angles at the catch.

You could probably try either some shims (thicker end at the heels) to change the foot stretcher angle (or weight lifting shoes with heel lifts) or something under the ball of the foot (like a rounded block of wood) so that your toes aren't touching anything.

That's just brain storming: I haven't tried any of it so none of the options would likely be ideal but might allow you to at least row.

Thanks, I am going to look into Bike shoes or weight lifting shoes. Weight lifting shoes might give me just enough shim, and be stiff enough in the fore foot to reduce the flexion.