Hallux Rigidus Treatment in Dubai
Are you struggling with foot pain that seems to intensify with each step?
You might be dealing with a condition known as hallux rigidus or stiff big toe. This common but often misunderstood ailment affects the big toe, causing discomfort and limiting mobility.
Hallux Rigidus
Hallux Rigidus, or big toe arthritis, is a degenerative condition characterised by stiffness and pain in the big toe joint.
“Hallux” denotes the big toe, and “rigidus” signifies that the joint is stiff and lacks normal mobility.
Toe arthritis may cause stiff and painful toes, making it difficult to wear shoes. Therefore, the doctor may recommend toe motion exercises. However, if the pain and discomfort persist, the doctor may recommend a big toe arthritis surgery Dubai.
Causes of Hallux Rigidus
The precise cause of Hallux rigidus is not always clear. However, here are some of the potential causes and contributing factors associated with hallux rigidus:
- Generalised wear and tear in that joint surface over time.
- It runs in families and has a genetic predisposition.
- It can follow a previous injury to the joint.
- A previous gouty attack can lead to arthritis.
Symptoms of Hallux Rigidus
Common symptoms of Hallux rigidus include:
- Pain and stiffness around the big toe
- Limitations in sporting activities
- Inflammation and swelling around the joint
- Symptoms may worsen in cold and damp weather
- Formation of bony bumps on the top of the joint, leading to shoe discomfort
It’s important to note that the severity of hallux rigidus can vary, and not everyone with the condition will experience all these symptoms
Hallux Rigidus Diagnosis in Dubai
Dr Ehab Kheir will conduct a comprehensive assessment to ensure an accurate diagnosis of your foot condition, which includes:
- Medical History: Detailed information about your symptoms, medical and family history.
- Physical Examination: A comprehensive examination of your foot to check for tenderness, bony spurs, and limitations in movement.
- Diagnostic Imaging: A plain X-ray is typically used to diagnose joint space narrowing and bone spurs. In some cases, an MRI may be needed to assess cartilage changes, especially in early-stage arthritis.
This detailed assessment ensures an accurate diagnosis, allowing for a tailored big toe pain treatment in Dubai.
Hallux Rigidus Treatment in Dubai
Hallux rigidus, or big toe arthritis in Dubai, aims to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and manage the condition’s progression.
The treatment choice depends upon the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health.
Non-surgical treatment
For those with mild to moderate symptoms, non-surgical approaches may be effective:
- Footwear Modification: Wearing shoes with a roomy toe box and good arch support can reduce pressure on the big toe joint.
- Orthotics: Custom-made or over-the-counter shoe inserts (orthotics) can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce pain.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
- Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation.
Surgical treatment
Big toe arthritis surgery Dubai is considered when conservative measures fail to relieve pain.
- Joint debridement (Cheilectomy): In this surgical procedure, bone spurs and damaged tissue are removed to improve joint motion and reduce pain.
- Fusion: Fusion is a preferred treatment for active young individuals, subjecting the joint to greater stress. It involves permanently fusing the bones of the big toe joint. While it eliminates motion in the joint, it often provides long-lasting pain relief and can be an effective treatment for severe hallux rigidus.
- Joint replacement: A surgeon may recommend joint replacement surgery in certain cases. It entails replacing the damaged joint with an artificial implant. This option is generally considered for older patients or when other treatments are ineffective.
Treatment choice is individualised based on the patient’s unique circumstances and the severity of the condition. Consult with an orthopaedic specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Consult Dr Ehab Kheir for Hallux Rigidus Treatment in Dubai
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, stiffness or limited mobility in your big toe, consult Dr Ehab Kheir, an esteemed orthopaedic surgeon in Dubai. He will diagnose the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate big toe pain treatment in Dubai.
Schedule your appointment today.
