Hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis that affects the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced motion. Over time, this condition can make bending the big toe increasingly difficult, leading to discomfort during activities such as walking, running, and even standing. Hallux rigidus often progresses gradually, making early intervention and proper management the best way to tackle symptoms before they interfere with your daily life. At OrthoGeorgia, we strive to help our patients restore and maintain their mobility and comfort, no matter what kind of orthopedic issue they are dealing with. Our foot and ankle specialists in Macon, Warner Robins, and Kathleen, GA offer comprehensive care for hallux rigidus, including both nonsurgical and surgical treatments tailored to your needs. Learn more below about this common arthritic condition and how our team can help you get back to living and moving more comfortably.
What are the Symptoms of Hallux Rigidus?
Recognizing and addressing the symptoms of hallux rigidus early can help reduce the risk of joint damage or future complications. Arthritis in the big toe often begins with subtle changes, but if left untreated, it can progress to significantly impact your mobility and daily life. Untreated hallux rigidus can cause persistent discomfort, altered walking patterns, and challenges with wearing regular footwear. Common symptoms include:
Pain or aching at the base of the big toe, especially when walking, running, or climbing stairs
Pain or discomfort that worsens in cold or damp weather
Stiffness and difficulty bending the big toe up or down
Limited range of motion in the big toe that worsens over time
A hard, bony bump or prominence on the top of the big toe joint
Swelling, redness, or inflammation around the big toe joint
Difficulty finding comfortable shoes due to joint swelling or shoe pressure
Altered gait or limping
If you notice these symptoms, especially if they interfere with your daily activities, a prompt evaluation by an OrthoGeorgia foot and ankle specialist is the best next step towards finding relief.
How is Hallux Rigidus Diagnosed?
Diagnosing hallux rigidus begins with a comprehensive evaluation by a skilled foot and ankle specialist at OrthoGeorgia. During your visit, your doctor will take a detailed medical history and ask about your symptoms, particularly any pain, stiffness, or changes in mobility in the big toe joint. You’ll also be asked about your daily activities, footwear habits, and any prior foot injuries that may be contributing to your symptoms.
A physical examination will be performed to assess the range of motion in your big toe and look for signs of swelling, joint tenderness, or the presence of bone spurs. Your provider may manually move the toe to evaluate joint stiffness and determine the severity of the arthritis. To confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the extent of joint damage, your doctor will typically order an X-ray of your foot. This imaging test allows your provider to assess joint space narrowing, bone spur formation, and any arthritic changes. In some cases, additional imaging such as MRI may be recommended to assess cartilage damage or soft tissue inflammation. Digital X-rays are conveniently available at all OrthoGeorgia clinic locations in Central Georgia.
Treatment for Hallux Rigidus at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, our foot and ankle specialists provide personalized treatment for hallux rigidus based on your symptoms and activity level. From conservative care options like custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and footwear modifications to advanced surgical procedures (when necessary), we are committed to helping our patients overcome pain, restore joint function, and maintain mobility.
Nonsurgical Hallux Rigidus Treatment
Our specialists prioritize nonsurgical treatment as the initial approach for many orthopedic conditions, including hallux rigidus. Conservative treatment options can be very helpful in the management of arthritis pain and symptoms, especially in the early stages. Common nonsurgical treatments for hallux rigidus include:
Footwear modifications: Shoes with a spacious toe box and a stiff sole to minimize joint stress.
Custom orthotics: Inserts designed to support the foot and decrease pressure on the big toe.
Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter or prescription options to reduce pain and swelling.
Ice therapy: Applying ice to the joint to lessen inflammation after activity.
Activity adjustment: Limiting high-impact activities to help decrease irritation and discomfort.
Steroid injections: To reduce inflammation in the joint
Surgery for Hallux Rigidus in Central GA
Surgery for hallux rigidus is considered when conservative treatments no longer provide sufficient relief. At this stage, the joint at the base of the big toe may become increasingly rigid, swollen, and difficult to move, making walking and wearing shoes more challenging. The specific surgical procedure recommended by your OrthoGeorgia foot and ankle specialist will depend on the severity of your joint damage and your individual needs. Common surgical options include removing bone spurs (cheilectomy), realigning the bone (osteotomy), or fusing the joint (arthrodesis) in advanced cases. All surgeries are performed at our advanced surgical centers in Central Georgia, with a focus on safety and personalized care. If surgery is needed, your OrthoGeorgia team will guide you through the process and answer all your questions to ensure your confidence and comfort. Our orthopedic surgery centers in Macon are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), demonstrating our commitment to the highest quality of care and superior clinical outcomes.
Other Foot and Ankle Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, we diagnose and treat the full spectrum of conditions affecting the lower extremities. Whether you’re experiencing everyday discomfort or facing a more complex injury, our team is equipped with the expertise and advanced tools needed to provide effective, patient-centered care. We offer both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options tailored to your needs, with the ultimate goal of supporting your orthopedic health and comfort. Some of the most common foot and ankle conditions we treat in Central Georgia include:
Macon
