Foot hallux rigidus
Osteoarthritis (pain and inflammation) of the foot
Foot hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis causing pain in the joint where your big toe joins your foot
About hallux rigidus in the foot
It occurs most commonly in middle-aged men and both big toes may be affected. Sufferers may also have a bunion (a painful bony lump) on their big toe.
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of foot hallux rigidus? icon plus
Your GP or consultant will examine your big toe to determine whether you have foot hallux rigidus. The most common symptoms are:
- pain that may get worse in cold, damp weather
- restriction in the range of motions of the big toe (stiffness)
- bony growths (bunions) on the top of the big toe
The pain you experience is progressive and over time, walking or even standing can be painful.
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How is hallux rigidus diagnosed? icon plus
Your GP or consultant will discuss your symptoms with you and examine your foot by testing the range of motion of the joint and how far the toe can bend up and down.
An X-ray is usually recommended to determine the extent of your condition and whether there are any abnormalities in the bone or bone spur development (abnormal bone growth). Following your examination, the consultant will advise you if surgery is necessary. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Treatment options depend on the extent of your condition, the amount of pain you are suffering and your overall health and fitness. Your GP or consultant will recommend the most appropriate treatment for you and these may include:
- Non-surgical treatment (orthotics) to reduce the pressure on the big toe during walking. This involves modifying your shoes by adding a subtle 'rocker' to the sole so it doesn't bend, and also stiffening the sole.
- Surgery, there are a number of options your consultant will discuss these with you:
- injection/manipulation
- minimally invasive arthroscopic debridement
- open debridement
- Kellers/Hamiltons arthroplasty
- fusion and replacement.
Our foot and ankle consultants
Learn more about foot hallux rigidus
Why does my big toe hurt?
Our locations
From complex foot surgery to straightforward ankle procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street
London W1G 8BJ
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The Portland Hospital
205 - 209 Great Portland Street
London W1W 5AH
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London Ankle & Arthritis Centre
Platinum Medical Centre
15-17 Lodge Road, St John's Wood
London NW8 7JA
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Outpatients and Diagnostics at 30 Devonshire Street
30 Devonshire Street
London W1G 6PU
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London Bridge Orthopaedics
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344