Arthritis in the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal joint) can significantly impact daily life, making walking, climbing stairs, or wearing shoes painful. This condition, also called hallux rigidus, often develops due to age-related wear, previous injury, or joint deformity.

Mr. Turab Syed, an experienced Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in foot and ankle surgery, offers both non-surgical and surgical treatment options for big toe arthritis at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling and The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton. This guide explains the condition, available treatments, recovery, and why patients should choose Mr. Syed for their care.

What is big toe arthritis?

Big toe arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joint wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact. This causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes bone spurs.

Common symptoms include:

• Persistent pain in the big toe joint.
  
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after activity.
  
• Difficulty wearing shoes due to swelling or deformity.
  
• Reduced walking distance or altered gait.
  

Who can benefit from treatment?

Treatment is suitable for patients who:

• Experience persistent pain despite rest, medication, or orthotics.
  
• Have joint stiffness limiting daily activities.
  
• Show signs of joint degeneration on X-rays.
  

Mr. Syed performs a thorough clinical assessment, including physical examination and imaging, to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment options in Stirling & Hamilton

Non-surgical management

For early-stage arthritis, non-surgical measures may include:

• Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relief.
  
• Custom orthotics or supportive footwear.
  
• Steroid or PRP injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
  
• Physiotherapy exercises to maintain joint mobility and strength.
  

Surgical management

If non-surgical options are insufficient, surgery may be recommended. Procedures include:

• Big toe fusion (first MTP joint arthrodesis): Eliminates joint movement to relieve pain while maintaining stability.
  
• Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Replaces the damaged joint with an implant to preserve movement.
  
• Cheilectomy: Removal of bone spurs and damaged cartilage to improve motion in early arthritis.
  

Surgery is performed under regional or general anaesthesia and typically takes 45–90 minutes, depending on the procedure.

Where it’s performed

Mr. Syed performs surgeries at:

• Kings Park Hospital, Stirling (Polmaise Rd, FK7 9JH) – modern theatres and personalised recovery support.
  
• The Lanarkshire Clinic, Hamilton (Cadzow Avenue, ML3 0FT) – private orthopaedic care with expert staff.
  

Both facilities are accessible for patients across Stirling, Lanarkshire, and surrounding areas.

Recovery and aftercare

Recovery depends on the treatment chosen:

• Non-surgical: Most patients see improvement within weeks with pain relief and physiotherapy.
  
• Fusion or replacement surgery:
  
  
  • 0–2 weeks: Rest, elevation, and limited weight-bearing in a protective boot or cast.
    
  • 2–6 weeks: Gradual increase in weight-bearing as comfort allows.
    
  • 6–12 weeks: Walking ability improves, with physiotherapy to support mobility and strength.
    

Follow-up appointments monitor healing, pain relief, and joint function.

Risks and complications

Risks vary by treatment type but may include:

• Infection or delayed healing (for surgical options).
  
• Persistent stiffness or discomfort.
  
• Nerve irritation or swelling.
  
• Complications from implants in joint replacement surgery.
  

Mr. Syed uses advanced surgical techniques and careful post-operative monitoring to minimise risks and ensure optimal outcomes.

Why choose Mr. Turab Syed in Stirling & Hamilton?

• Specialist in foot and ankle surgery with extensive experience in joint preservation and reconstruction.
  
• Personalised treatment tailored to the severity of arthritis and patient lifestyle.
  
• Advanced techniques including minimally invasive and fusion procedures.
  
• Accessible, high-quality facilities at Kings Park Hospital and The Lanarkshire Clinic.
  

FAQs

Is big toe arthritis painful?
Yes, pain and stiffness are common, especially when walking or wearing shoes.

How long does recovery take?
Non-surgical improvement can occur in weeks. Surgical recovery may take 6–12 weeks for walking and up to 6 months for full function.

Will I lose movement in my toe?
Fusion surgery eliminates joint movement, but other options like arthroplasty preserve motion.

Can I walk normally after treatment?
Yes, most patients regain comfortable walking, with improved pain and stability.

Book your consultation

If big toe arthritis is affecting your mobility or quality of life, contact Mr. Turab Syed for expert assessment and personalised treatment options.

Book a consultation today at Kings Park Hospital in Stirling or The Lanarkshire Clinic in Hamilton to discuss your care plan.