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 bend
You 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.