How to Treat Hallux Rigidus

Hallux rigidus is characterized by extreme rigidity at the base of the big toe. Because the big toe is so important for walking and performing a number of other weight-bearing activities, hallux rigidus can be debilitating and often requires treatment. Follow these steps if you have hallux rigidus.

Instructions

• 1

  See a podiatrist to see if you have hallux rigidus and, if so, what can be done to treat the condition.

• 2

  Wear shoes with a large toe box to alleviate pressure on the big toe. Some people find that shoes with stiff or rocker-bottom soles are helpful. Wearing high heels is definitely not recommended, since this can be very painful if you have hallux rigidus.

• 3

  Ask your doctor about getting fitted for custom orthotic devices.

• 4

  Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen to relieve the pain and swelling in your big toe.

• 5

  Receive corticosteroid injections to relieve pain and swelling. These will be administered by your doctor if she thinks injections will help.

• 6

  Look into physical therapy like ultrasound or contrast baths to relieve pain and swelling.

• 7

  Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for surgery. Numerous techniques like cheilectomy (removing part of the foot bone), arthrodesis (fusing bones in the big toe together) or arthroplasty (removing the joint and replacing it with a new one) are all options.