Hallux rigidus causes the big toe to stiffen over time until it is no longer able to bend. People with this condition often report not being able to move the toe or feeling as if the toe is frozen. If you have hallux rigidus, Dr. Timothy Mason, Dr. Jason Hancock, and Dr. Travis Johnson of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Orlando, your Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL, foot and ankle doctors would be happy to discuss your treatment options with you.
Why should I seek treatment for stiff toe knuckles?
Like most deformities and foot problems, hallux rigidus is progressive. This means that the problem will continue to worsen over time. Since the speed at which this problem progresses varies from person to person, you should visit your podiatrists as soon as possible to get the treatments you need to slow this disorder’s progression.
How is hallux rigidus treated?
While surgery is the only way to repair the joint, it isn’t the first course of action. Your Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL, foot and ankle specialists will provide you with a list of conservative, at-home treatment options geared at reducing pain and swelling. These treatment options include:
- Warm baths and foot soaks
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen
- Limiting and avoiding activities that put added stress on the toes
- Wearing shoes that fit properly and have roomy toe boxes
If pain and swelling are severe and aren’t responding to over-the-counter pain relievers, our team may administer steroid injections to help with the symptoms.
Do I need surgery?
There are instances in which surgery is truly the best way to treat hallux rigidus. If you are dealing with chronic pain that impacts mobility and your wellbeing, and you can’t control your symptoms with the conservative measures above, then you may require surgery. There are several surgical procedures used to treat hallux rigidus, and our team would be happy to discuss surgical options with you if they are necessary.
If you are looking for a foot and ankle doctor in Lake Mary, Orlando, and Oviedo, FL, that specializes in treating stiff toe knuckles, then call Foot & Ankle Specialists of Orlando at (407) 365-9511 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mason, Dr. Hancock, and Dr. Johnson.