Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Joint Replacement
Joint replacement surgery of the big toe joint (first metatarsophalangeal)
Joint replacement surgery of the big toe is performed to treat patients with severe osteoarthritis of the big toe, also known as hallux rigidus.
Hallux rigidus is a type of degenerative arthritis affecting the joint at the base of the big toe. It is a progressive condition that leads to increasing stiffness over time. Pain and stiffness are often more noticeable in cold weather and are typically aggravated by walking or activity.
In big toe joint replacement surgery, the affected joint is replaced with an artificial implant designed to mimic the function of the original joint, restoring movement and reducing pain.
The big toe (first metatarsophalangeal) joint plays a crucial role in propulsion and normal gait. Its weight-bearing function makes it susceptible to degenerative overuse conditions, such as arthritis, similar to other major weight-bearing joints like the hip and knee.
As with any degenerative joint disease, non-surgical treatment primarily focuses on maintaining range of motion and reducing pain, rather than attempting to restore lost joint mobility.
Metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint replacement for severe osteoarthritis of the big toe (hallux rigidus) is performed when patients experience significant pain and loss of movement. It is often recommended for younger, active patients, as they require joint mobility that fusion surgery cannot provide. Joint replacement is frequently considered after an unsuccessful cheilectomy or as an alternative to fusion surgery, which may be less suitable due to its permanent loss of movement.
The procedure involves making an incision on the top of the foot, extending from the big toe to the mid-foot. A section of bone is removed from either the base of the big toe or the end of the metatarsal bone to create space for the new joint. The surgeon then prepares the space by removing any bone debris. The artificial joint is inserted by bending the big toe, then straightening it to secure the joint in place. Finally, the incision is closed with stitches, and the body gradually incorporates the joint naturally.
Physiotherapy is essential after surgery to reduce pain and swelling and to ensure the artificial joint regains proper movement and function.
Symptoms afterjoint replacement of the big toe
It is normal to experience residual pain and discomfort around the scar site during the first couple of weeks after surgery. The joint may also feel unusual or “odd” initially; physiotherapy sessions are designed to help you use the artificial joint naturally, restoring function as if it were your own.
Physiotherapy after joint replacement of the big toe
0–2 Weeks Post-Surgery During the initial recovery period, you will walk in a surgical boot on the heel of your operated foot, using crutches for support. This helps the new joint to heal and “bed in”. Our physiotherapists at Ace Physio Sports will advise you to rest with your foot elevated and apply ice to reduce pain and swelling. While mobility is limited, our physiotherapists will provide a seated exercise programme to maintain strength in your lower body, with a particular focus on the hip, knee, and ankle joints.
2–6 Weeks Post-Surgery During this period, our physiotherapists at Ace Physio Sports will develop a personalised programme that includes gentle active range-of-motion exercises for your new joint. You will also be introduced to proprioceptive exercises, which teach your joint to sense and respond to different positions. Additionally, our physiotherapists may show you self-massage techniques to help accelerate healing around the scar site.
6–8 Weeks Post-Surgery After your x-ray review, if recovery is progressing as expected, you will likely be able to begin walking normally on your foot. Our physiotherapists at Ace Physio Sports will help you retrain a correct walking pattern, ensuring your new joint functions as naturally as your original joint. At this stage, it is also important to introduce balance exercises to support stability and confidence on your feet.
8 Weeks and Beyond Once you are walking correctly, our physiotherapists at Ace Physio Sports will focus on more challenging tasks that you may have been hesitant to attempt, such as driving, returning to sport, or climbing stairs. While it may take a few more months before you can return to competitive sports, our physiotherapists will support your progression with functional treatment sessions tailored to help you achieve your personal goals.
Summary
Joint replacement of the big toe is typically reserved for severe cases of arthritis (hallux rigidus). The procedure is usually recommended for active patients for whom maintaining joint mobility is important, making fusion surgery less suitable. The operation involves replacing the arthritic joint with an artificial implant, designed to function like the original joint. At Ace Physio Sports, we provide post-operative support to help your joint function as effectively as possible. Our physiotherapists initially focus on reducing pain and maintaining strength in the surrounding joints. Once x-rays confirm a successful procedure and you are able to bear weight on your foot, our physiotherapists will work with you to develop a detailed, week-by-week rehabilitation plan, aimed at building confidence in your new joint and achieving your personal recovery goals.
Call Ace Physio Sports now at +65 81535374 for more information or to book an appointment. You can also visit acephysiosports.com to learn more about our services.
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Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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