Big toe arthritis (hallux rigidus) is a common cause of pain and stiffness in the big toe joint. It can make walking uncomfortable, limit footwear choices and affect daily activities.

Mr Edward Dawe is a Consultant Foot & Ankle Surgeon specialising in the assessment and treatment of big toe arthritis, offering both non-surgical management and modern surgical options where appropriate. Clinics are available in Chichester, Worthing and Haywards Heath.

What is big toe arthritis?

​Big toe arthritis, also known as hallux rigidus, occurs when the cartilage in the big toe joint wears down over time. This leads to pain, stiffness and reduced movement.

The condition may develop gradually or follow previous injury, and symptoms often worsen with activity.

Symptoms of big toe arthritis

​Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the big toe joint, particularly when walking  
• Stiffness and reduced movement of the toe  
• Swelling around the joint  
• Difficulty wearing certain shoes  
• Pain when pushing off during walking  

Non-surgical treatment

​Many patients can manage symptoms without surgery. Treatment options may include:

• Footwear modifications to reduce pressure on the joint  
• Activity modification  
• Pain relief medication  
• Physiotherapy  
• Insoles or orthotics  

These measures can improve symptoms but do not reverse the underlying arthritis.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment.

There are several surgical options depending on the severity of the arthritis and individual needs. These may include joint-preserving procedures or joint fusion.

Mr Edward Dawe offers a tailored approach to treatment and will discuss the most appropriate option following assessment.

For more detailed information, see the hallux rigidus surgery page.

When to seek specialist advice

If you have ongoing pain or stiffness in your big toe that affects walking or daily activities, a specialist assessment can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment options.

Early assessment can help guide treatment and prevent progression of symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

How is big toe arthritis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made through clinical examination and imaging such as X-rays to assess joint changes.
Can big toe arthritis get worse over time?
Symptoms can gradually progress, particularly if the joint continues to be stressed.
Is surgery always required?
No, many patients manage well with non-surgical treatment. Surgery is considered if symptoms significantly affect quality of life.
What is hallux rigidus surgery?
Hallux rigidus surgery includes a range of procedures designed to reduce pain and improve function, depending on the stage of arthritis.