Hallux Rigidus & Joint replacement in big toe.

I had surgery for hallux rigidus at the age of 60. The surgical podiatrist did a cheilectomy and also repositioned the metatarsal bones. I was quite active physically at age 60 and Doc said that I would likely disintegrate any artificial joint and did not recommend that for me. Recovery took a full year but it improved my condition greatly. Every year I would think that some improvements are made in artificial joints, but I am glad that I took his advice back then. We discussed fusion initially but we both decided that we did not want to go that way, at least not then.

How long has it been? When he repositioned the metatarsal bones, did that require hardware/screws, etc? Has the toe/area stayed "straight"? Do you do anything to prevent reoccurrence? Splint? Toe separators? Anatomically shaped forefoot/wide toebox shoes? I have the same issues you had and am leery of the fusion or a replacement, which both require a long, non-weight bearing period. Thanks.

Hi Marie, it looks like I answered your message privately; I am not sure how all this message boarding stuff works. Good luck with your foot issues.

Yes! Thanks! I replied to your answer in the private message. Never sure what "goes" in cyberspace. Thanks again. Very helpful.

I had a joint replacement when I was 63. I was starting to have problems with my hip because of how I was walking due to my toe. The surgery wasn't painful, and I was walking in a boot without a crutch in less than a week. Recovery and rehab did take a while, but it was so worth it.

I had the big toe joint “cleaned up” in April 24 due to a bone chip breaking off and gauging up the joint cartilage. That really didn’t help. In January I had a partial joint replacement. It’s been nearly 4 months and, due to pain & swelling , the surgeon believes a fusion is my only option for pain relief. I’m in complete dismay. I’ve attached a pic of the x-ray showing the Home Depot part inserted.

On Reddit, there is a sub Reddit group r/Halluxrigidus. You may want to repost there. Fairly active postings. Good luck!!

Once a joint has been opened, you will never have the original back. Your body was unkind to the original and continues to work its evil on that joint. Fusion will eliminate the motion and, once healed, end the pain. Learn about what folks have to say about life after fusion. Consider your goals and proceed with those in mind. Blessings to you and prayers for comfortable ambulation.

I had my big toe joint replaced for the same reason but my replacement was done differently. If I walk a lot it does get tender but typically I have no issues with it.