Hallux Rigidus (Osteoarthritis of the Big Toe)

Hallux Rigidus is a joint deformity of the big toe caused by wear and tear, resulting in pain and reduced motion. At FACEMED in Essex, our specialists offer advanced treatments and surgical options to alleviate symptoms and improve joint function.

About Hallux Rigidus (Osteoarthritis of the Big Toe)

What Is It And What Causes It?

What Treatments Can Help?

How Successful Is Surgery?

What Is It And What Causes It?

Hallux Rigidus is a joint deformity of the big toe, characterised by reduced range and quality of joint motion, and a bony lump over the joint. The joint becomes painful, and the lump may irritate against shoes. The condition is often caused by trauma, such as stubbing the toe, which leads to changes in the joint over time.

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What Treatments Can Help?

Stiff-soled shoes and insoles can often provide relief. Injections of steroids or natural lubricants may offer temporary benefits. Common surgical options include debridement, cheilectomy, or fusion.

Surgery involves either “cleaning up” the joint (debridement) or using small implants to replace damaged cartilage with Cartiva™, a proprietary polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) cryogel device that mimics natural cartilage. In advanced cases, fusion of the big toe joint can offer permanent relief. Recovery is similar to that of bunion surgery.

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How Successful Is Surgery?

An audit of 100 patients showed that 86% of those undergoing joint clean-up and 93.3% of those undergoing fusion experienced improvement. Please note that you will be asked to cease smoking for 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after surgery to support the healing process.

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What Is It And What Causes It? +

What Treatments Can Help? +

How Successful Is Surgery? +

FAQs

What is the recovery time for hallux rigidus surgery?

Are there risks associated with the surgery?

How can I prepare for hallux rigidus surgery?

What can I expect after the procedure?

TESTIMONIALS

"Look natural, refreshed and more youthful"

Monica is extremely skilled at what she does, every procedure I have had has made me look natural, refreshed and more youthful. She is very professional and gives me confidence in her abilities. The clinic is absolutely spotless and run efficiently. I have been seeing her for several years and would highly recommend her services.

Lesley Scott-Wilson

"Outstanding patient care"

To say I’m pleased with the service is an understatement, outstanding patient care and a first class service. Doctor George and Team are by far the best dental team I’ve experienced. The FACEMED facility is of the highest standard and I highly recommend that anyone looking for any dental treatment to look no further than here.

Jonathan Brooks

"Truly amazing"

Monica is truly amazing. The results are phenomenal and very natural. Monica spends time assessing your particular facial structure and physiology and treats accordingly, always being careful to produce the best results – she provides a bespoke service and her years of experience are priceless – I travel an hour to go to her! Would highly recommend and will never go anywhere else!

Amy

"Fantastic dentist"

I hadn’t been to the dentist for year as i’ve always been too scared!! I plucked up the courage after Dr Ketan Sheth treated my 9 and 11 year old children and they were fine. Can honestly say now I don’t know why I didn’t go sooner. Dr Ketan Sheth is a fantastic dentist and all the staff and the surgery as a whole there is 5 star! Thank you for all your help and see you in 6 months.

Mark Corner

"Immaculately Clean"

I have been using FACEMED for a number of years now for natural, painless Botox injections. A few years ago I decided to also have Blepharoplasty Eyelid Surgery. The clinic has its own operating theatre for the Consultant Plastic Surgeon to perform surgery, the results were perfect. FACEMED is immaculately clean, the staff are professional and helpful and Monica is an absolute expert in her field.

Sara Holmes

"Natural Results"

Monica is professional, thorough and honest and puts you at ease. I absolutely wouldn’t trust anyone else. The results are always very natural. The clinic is beautifully clean and always smells amazing! If I ever decide to go further than my regular ‘tweakments’ FACEMED will absolutely be my first port of call.

Carly O'Brien

"Truly Excellent"

I love my experience when visiting FACEMED. Such a relaxing, professional atmosphere. Furthermore, I look forward to seeing the results of my treatments, of which I am never in doubt. I totally recommend FACEMED for truly excellent results.

Sue Harrison