The rigid big toe is manifested by pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe while walking, when the heel rises above the ground and the foot prepares to take off. Pain often makes it impossible to fully climb on toes or wear high-heeled shoes. The bone conflict results from the presence of degenerative changes that limit the passive dorsiflexion of the big toe. X-ray images show a narrowing of the joint space and the presence of bone spurs (osteophytes).

The metatarsophalangeal arthrodesis of the big toe is an effective form of surgical treatment of the rigid big toe. The procedure consists in cutting out the articular surfaces and then permanent stiffening of the big toe joint in a slight dorsiflexion. The treatment relieves pain and allows the patient to freely take up everyday activities, and even play sports.

After the procedure, the patient should move in a special shoe that relieves the front of the foot. This is necessary for a period of about 6 weeks or until the toe joint is firmly in place.

The cheilectomy procedure, i.e. the removal of degenerative changes inhibiting the dorsiflexion of the big toe, is performed in young active people who complain of pain in the big toe joint with the accompanying limited mobility. The condition for the success of the operation is the initial stage of degenerative changes in the big toe joint - the head of the metatarsal bone should have more than half of the undamaged articular cartilage. Only then is it possible to restore the painless range of motion of the big toe.