Nonoperative and operative intervention for hallux rigidus.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case study of the management of an individual with hallux rigidus deformity.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcome of nonoperative and operative treatment, including kinematic and kinetic changes following cheilectomy surgery, for an individual with hallux rigidus deformity.

BACKGROUND

Hallux rigidus is a common disorder of the first metatarsophalangeal joint characterized by progressive limitation of hallux dorsiflexion, prominent dorsal osteophyte formation, and pain. Surgery may be considered when nonoperative management strategies have proven unsuccessful. Kinematic and plantar pressure changes during dynamic activities have not been previously described following cheilectomy surgery for hallux rigidus deformity.

METHODS AND MEASURES: The patient was a 54-year-old man who sustained a traumatic injury to the great toe. Conservative treatment included nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, custom insole fabrication, and footwear outersole modification. Because of continued pain, loss of motion, and restrictions in daily activities, the patient elected to have surgery, and a cheilectomy procedure was done. Presurgical and postsurgical kinematic data of first metatarsophalangeal joint motion were collected using an electromagnetic tracking device during clinical motion tests and walking. Peak plantar pressures were assessed during gait. The patient was evaluated preoperatively, at 6 months, and again at 18 months following surgery.

RESULTS

The outcome of surgery proved favorable, both subjectively and objectively. Peak dorsiflexion increased significantly (a minimum of 20 degrees) for all clinical tests and walking trials at the first metatarsophalangeal joint when compared with preoperative measurements. Peak plantar pressures also increased over the medial forefoot (68%) and hallux (247%) between preoperative testing and follow-up, indicating increased loading to this region of the foot.

CONCLUSIONS

Restrictions in motion and daily activities and persistent pain may warrant surgical intervention for individuals with hallux rigidus deformity. A successful outcome, as measured by the patient's self-reported pain, return to recreational activities, and kinematic and plantar pressure changes at the follow-up examination, was demonstrated in this case study.