About
Overview
What Is Hallux Rigidus?
Hallux Rigidus is a form of arthritis affecting the big toe (first MTP) joint, leading to gradual stiffness, reduced movement, and pain—especially during walking or push-off. The condition results from wear and tear of the joint cartilage, causing bone spurs that limit motion.
Who may need treatment?
Symptoms that may indicate you need treatment:
- Reduced upward movement of the big toe.
- Pain during walking, especially while pushing off the ground.
- Swelling or tenderness over the big toe joint.
- Difficulty wearing certain footwear.
- A feeling of “jamming” in the big toe.
- Prominent bone spurs over the joint in advanced cases.
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatment:
- Anti-inflammatory medications.
- Physiotherapy to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
- Activity modification (avoiding high-impact activities).
- Footwear changes (stiff-soled shoes or rocker-bottom soles).
- Ice application for pain relief.
Surgical Treatment
Cheilectomy (MIS – Minimal Invasive Surgery)
Recommended for early to moderate arthritis with prominent bone spurs.
- Performed through a tiny incision (<4 mm).
- Removes extra bone around the joint to improve motion.
- Minimally invasive → less pain, quicker healing.
- Helps restore joint movement and reduce pain.
In advanced cases, other procedures such as arthrodesis (joint fusion) may be considered.
Procedure Details
How Do I Prepare for MIS Cheilectomy?
- Clinical examination and X-rays to assess arthritis severity.
- Review of medications and medical conditions.
- Guidance on fasting and pre-operative instructions.
- Stop smoking for better healing.
- Discuss expected recovery and mobility limitations.
- Arrange assistance at home for the first few days if needed.
What Happens During This Procedure?
- Performed under local anesthesia, regional block, or general anesthesia.
- A small incision (<4 mm) is made over the big toe joint.
- Special MIS burrs are used to remove bone spurs.
- Joint movement is checked to ensure improved range.
- Dressing is applied, and you will be given a postoperative shoe.
What Happens After This Procedure?
- Most patients go home the same day.
- You can walk immediately in a postoperative shoe.
- Swelling and mild discomfort are common initially.
- Dressing changes and follow-up at 1 week.
- Gradual return to normal activities over a few weeks.
- Physiotherapy may be advised to maximize motion.
How Long Is Recovery After This Procedure?
- Most patients resume light walking within a few days.
- Return to regular footwear: 2–4 weeks.
- Full recovery: 6–8 weeks.
- Long-term pain relief and improved motion expected in early-to-moderate cases.
When Should I Call My Healthcare Provider After This Procedure?
Seek help if you experience:
- Increased pain, redness, or swelling.
- Fever or chills.
- Numbness or sudden inability to move the toe.
- Persistent discharge from the incision.
- Painful weight-bearing.
- Concerns with the postoperative shoe or dressing.
Doctors & Departments
Departments and Specialties
Astenortho has one of the largest and most experienced practices. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.
Departments with Related Expertise
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Care at Astenortho
Astenortho's Approach
Cutting-Edge Technology
AstenOrtho is Kerala’s Most Tech-Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital, with advanced robotics and some of the finest health-tech, which has proven time and again to give excellent patient outcomes. Our seasoned specialists combine their experience and AstenOrtho’s technological edge to keep evolving the AS.10 Robotic Precision Protocols; to keep pushing the bar of the care delivery models.
Collaboration
We host some of the best surgeons, specialists, therapists, and healthcare workers who work as one strong team to ensure best possible treatment outcomes, and ‘Zero Compromise Care’ for our patients at AstenOrtho.
Compassion
We understand the human urge of keep doing and wanting to do the things they love. At AstenOrtho, ‘Do What You Love’ is the core philosophy that drives us to ensure that we give our best shot in achieving the ‘Desired Mobility’, our patients need.
Experience and Patient Stories
Our Centres & Departments
Center for Spine Surgery
Anaesthesiology
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
Centre for Bone & Joints
Centre For Paediatric Ortho
Center for Emergency Department
Centre for Reconstructive Surgery
Advanced Dental Centre
Centre for Ortho Wellness
General Medicine & Diabetology
Centre for Sports Medicine
Costs and Insurance
AstenOrtho is empanelled with leading insurance providers both within and outside India. For more details on a specific insurance provider or to understand the insurance process, you can write to us: hello@astenortho.com
Contents
