Big toe arthritis, also known as hallux rigidus, can cause pain and stiffness, which can make it difficult to stand and walk.
Big Toe Arthritis
Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body. Aging or a prior injury may lead to big toe arthritis.
Wearing supportive footwear and using pain-relieving methods can help manage symptoms. But if pain is getting in the way of daily life, a health care provider may recommend surgical treatment for big toe arthritis.
There are many types of surgery for big toe arthritis. Fusion surgery removes damaged cartilage from the big toe joint and connects the bones with a metal plate and screws so they will fuse together. This can reduce irritation of the big toe, although it can also restrict the toe's movement.
During big toe fusion surgery for arthritis, the surgeon makes an incision along the top of the big toe to insert a metal plate and screws that will hold the toe bones together so they can heal and fuse.
