Severe arthritis, injury or genetic defect within the front of the foot and toes may cause pain that makes it difficult to walk and wear shoes. While conservative treatments such as shoe modifications, injections and orthotics are effective for some patients, others may require surgery in order to achieve effective symptom relief.
Phalangeal joint arthrodesis, also known as toe fusion surgery, is a surgical procedure that involves fusing the joints of the toes to alleviate pain and correct deformities. The bones are held together with metal screws and a plate to help them heal in place. Arthrodesis can be an effective solution for various toe conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments.
When is Phalangeal Joint Arthrodesis Recommended?
This procedure may be recommended for patients suffering from severe toe joint problems that significantly impact their quality of life. Common conditions that may be treated with phalangeal joint arthrodesis include:
- Severe arthritis in the toe joints
- Chronic pain from hammertoes or claw toes
- Deformities resulting from rheumatoid arthritis
- Unstable or painful joints due to injury or previous surgeries
- Severe bunion deformities affecting the big toe
Phalangeal joint arthrodesis is typically considered when conservative treatments such as shoe modifications, orthotics, or pain medications have not provided adequate relief.
Benefits of Phalangeal Joint Arthrodesis
Phalangeal joint arthrodesis offers several potential benefits for patients with severe toe joint problems:
- Pain Relief: By eliminating motion in the affected joint, arthrodesis can significantly reduce or eliminate pain associated with arthritis or deformities.
- Improved Function: Although the fused joint will no longer bend, the procedure can improve overall foot function by creating a stable, pain-free toe that can better support weight and pressure during walking.
- Deformity Correction: Arthrodesis can effectively correct toe deformities, improving the appearance of the foot and making it easier to wear shoes comfortably.
- Long-lasting Results: When successful, joint fusion provides a permanent solution to joint problems, reducing the likelihood of needing additional surgeries in the future.
If you're struggling with severe toe pain, deformity, or limited function due to joint problems, and are considering your treatment options, we encourage you to schedule a consultation. Our team can provide a thorough evaluation of your condition and discuss whether phalangeal joint arthrodesis could be beneficial for you. Contact us today to take the first step towards finding relief from your toe joint problems and improving your foot function and overall quality of life.