Big Toe Arthritis (Hallux Rigidus/1st MTPJ OA)
Arthritis of the big toe, also known as hallux rigidus or 1st Metatarsophalangeal (MTPJ) arthritis presents with pain, swelling and stiffness of the 1st MTPJ. Patients are usually bothered by these symptoms from irritation when wearing shoes or from the pain and discomfort during walking when they push off on the big toe.
Initial non-surgical treatments that can be trialled for symptomatic relief include shoe-wear modification (rocker bottom shoes) and steroid injection.
Depending on the degree of arthritis in the toe, different successful options are available for surgical treatment of this condition. In the mildest stages, a cheilectomy that involves removing osteophytes (spurs of bone) can help improve movement of the joint and restore function. In more advanced stages where the cartilage is worn out to a greater degree, options for treatment include fusion of the joint or an interposition replacement of the joint with a synthetic device.
Each of these options have their own specific upsides and downsides- your surgeon will be able to discuss them with you after your assessment so that together you can agree on the best treatment option for your situation, degree of arthritis, and functional goals.
