Outcomes in hallux rigidus patients treated nonoperatively: A long-term follow-up study

The purpose of this study was to analyze radiographic outcome and patient s atisfaction in non-operative care of hallux rigidus. Twenty-two patients re presenting 24 feet were surveyed and radiographed. Average follow-up was 14 .4 years (range, 12-19 years). In 75% (18/24) of the feet, the patients wou ld "still chose not to have surgery" if they had to make the decision again . The pain remained about the same in 22 feet, improved with time in one, a nd became worse in one. The most common reason given for not having surgery was that the pain was not severe enough. The most common type of self-care was a shoe with an "ample toe box." More patients benefited from a stiff s ole than a soft sole, but the majority of patients did not cite the sole of the shoe as being important. There was measurable loss of cartilage space radiographically over time in 16 of 24 feet, and in eight of the 16 feet, t he loss of cartilage space was dramatic. The majority of hallux rigidus pat ients rated their pain as staying the same over a twelve-year period, despi te significant deterioration of joint space noted radiographically.