Hallux Rigidus Surgery
Hallux Rigidus Surgery
The goal of Hallux Rigidus surgery is to alleviate symptoms and improve function at the joint. It is typically recommended as a last resort, should non-surgical measures fail to resolve the complaint.Types of Hallux Rigidus Surgery
The cheilectomy procedure is carried out to remove excess bone at the big toe, which is caused by osteoarthritis.During the surgery excess bone and debris will be removed, this will help free up movement in the joint and reduce pain and stiffness.Initially an incision will be made over the joint of the second toe. The excess bone and fragments are then removed. Range of motion of the toe is checked intraoperatively to ensure sufficient movement.For non manual work you will require 1 – 2 weeks off from work where you should rest at home, if instead you have an active job then 5 weeks is suggested. At 6 weeks following the surgery, your foot should feel more normal and swelling would have mostly subsided. It is typically suggested that you avoid sports / high impact activities for 3 months.
Surgery to the big toe with the use of an implant may be recommended as a surgical option for arthritis to help reduce pain in the joint.The implant preserves movement in the toe following surgery.An incision is typically made at the top or side of your toe. Excess bone growth and fragments will be removed. The bone cut and a silastic implant is used to replace the joint. The implant allows for greater flexibility in the joint.Typically you will require 2 weeks rest from non manual work, manual work would instead require six weeks. At eight weeks the foot will start to feel more normal and swelling would have mostly subsided. You should wait until three months before undertaking high impact activities.
Fusion of the joint in the big toe can be carried out for severe and painful hallux rigidus (arthritis of the big toe).An incision is typically made at the top or side of the toe. Excess bone growth and fragments (osteophytes) will be removed. The bone is cut and then fused together with a fixation, such as specially designed screws and plate. This surgery can stop pain when walking and jogging. Following surgery the big toe will not be able to bendYou will require approximately six weeks off for non manual work and eight weeks for manual work. For the first six-eight weeks you will have a plaster cast, followed by the use of an air cast boot for mobilisation. At eight weeks postoperative you the foot should feel more normal and swelling will subside. You should wait until three months postoperative before carrying out sports/ high impact activities.
Should I Have Hallux Rigidus Surgery?
Your specialist will recommend surgery when required and provide detailed information so that you can make a decision on how to proceed.How Long Does Hallux Rigidus Surgery Last?
Hallux Rigidus surgery usually takes approximately 30 minutes. Though your surgeon will provide a more specific expectation dependent on your case and what operation will be required.How Long Does It Take To Recover From Hallux Rigidus Surgery?
The majority of healing following surgery happens in the first 12 weeks. Although it does take longer for the swelling to subside and totally return to normal in appearance.Can You Walk After Big Toe Fusion?
Immediately following the surgery you will have to restrict movement to allow the area to heal. Although you can move a little more after the first 3-4 days with aides. It takes approximately two weeks for you get around without crutches.Hallux Rigidus: Frequently Asked Questions
This is surgery on your big toe when arthritis has made it stiff and painful. We can remove the bumps (bone spurs) to help it move better, or fuse it if the arthritis is really bad.
Cheilectomy keeps your toe moving, which is great if you’re active. Fusion stops the pain completely but your toe can’t bend—better if you’re less active or the arthritis is advanced.
When the pain is really stopping you doing things and you’ve tried other options like proper shoes, anti-inflammatory meds, and physio for several months without enough relief.
Yes! Rocker-soled shoes, physio, anti-inflammatory meds, and cutting back on activities that hurt usually work well. Surgery is only if these don’t help enough.
You’ll be resting for 2-3 weeks, walking more over 4-6 weeks, and back to normal activities by 6-8 weeks. Full recovery takes about 3 months.
When your foot feels comfortable moving the pedals and you’re off strong painkillers—usually 4-6 weeks for cheilectomy, 6-8 weeks for fusion.
Yes, you’ll get back to normal shoes during recovery over 8-12 weeks. Very tight shoes might be uncomfortable, but regular footwear is no problem.
