The 1st Ray

Have you ever stubbed your big toe, and then found yourself limping around afterwards? Although it is small, the big toe is one of the most important components for a normal walking pattern.

Anatomy

The first ray is essentially your big toe. It consists of the first metatarsal, proximal phalanx, and distal phalanx. It is the shortest, strongest, and most important weight-bearing point in the forefoot. In standing, the first ray carries 40% of body weight.

Function

The first ray accepts load and disperses force in stance and loading phases of gait. It is a key component in toe off and swing phases of gait. Hypomobility or lack of mobility in the first ray is common, and it can create deviations in gait and potentially cause issues in other areas of your body.

Things You Can Do To Improve First Ray Mobility

• First ray self-mobilization (2:10 in video below)

• First ray push off exercise (3:19 in video below)

Written by Daniel Le, DPT