Hallux Rigidus
(Arthritis of the joint at the base of the great toe)

What happens to the joint?

• The smooth cartilage which allows the joint to move wears away (figure 1)
• The bone in the joint is exposed and the joint becomes painful 
• Large bumps of new bone (osteophyte) can be seen on the top of the joint (figure 2). They can be felt under the skin and can be painful
• The joint is stiff and difficult to bend with movement being painful
• The toe can rub against the shoes

What treatments are there for 1st toe arthritis?

There are simple treatments which do not involve an operation.

These include: 

• wearing softer, wider fronted shoes with stiff soles 
• padding over any bumps 
• stiff insoles 
• a rocker bar can be fitted to a shoe to reduce the need for the toe to bend

One of our specialist podiatrists will be able to give advice on these types of treatment. In the clinic x-rays are obtained to assess the extent of the disease and to help determine the best options for treatment. 

What about surgery for Hallux Rigidus?

Find out about surgical options >