Hallux rigidus is the 2nd most prevalent arthritic condition in the lower extremity, 2nd only to the knee. A lesser form of the condition is called hallux limitus. The medical term for the large toe is the hallux and limitus meaning limited motion. We typically grade this condition on 4 stages based on x-ray findings and the last stage, or stage IV, is considered hallux rigidus. This is a gradual progressive arthritic condition that over time will ruin the cartilage in the 1st toe joint making it difficult to walk without pain and especially for women to wear any form of a heel. Because of the progressive nature of this condition, surgery is typically instituted at an earlier stage to prevent a worsening arthritis within the joint. Dr. Garrett helped to develop the modified Hohmann procedure in 1995 as a joint preserving procedure and an alternative to a fusion or implant of the first toe joint (click here for the article). A fusion of the large toe joint is the most commonly recommended procedure for hallux rigidus. An osteotomy, or cutting of the 1st metatarsal bone and moving of the bone, is utilized to preserve the joint and restore pain-free joint motion. This procedure has been extremely successful with long-term success over the past 18 years. By utilizing the osteotomy, motion can be restored so that the patient can return to full regular activity including running and most women return to wearing a moderate heel. Dr. Garrett and Dr. Kim are both very versed in this procedure and for the majority of these arthritic cases, the joint can be preserved through this unique surgical procedure.
Xray Pre-Op
Stage 1
Xray Post-Op
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 3
