Cheilectomy

Hallux Rigidus Cheilectomy Rehabilitation Physiotherapy in Singapore

A cheilectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat hallux rigidus, a condition that causes stiffness and pain in the big toe joint. The procedure involves removing excess bone or bone spurs from the joint to improve movement and reduce discomfort.

Hallux rigidus is a form of degenerative arthritis that affects the first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, located at the base of the big toe. Over time, the joint becomes stiff, painful, and less flexible, which can make walking and daily activities difficult.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, located on East Coast Road in Singapore, our physiotherapists provide specialised rehabilitation programmes to support recovery after cheilectomy surgery and help patients regain comfortable walking and full foot function.

What is Hallux Rigidus?

Hallux rigidus is a progressive condition that affects the big toe joint, leading to reduced joint mobility and increasing pain.

The condition develops when the cartilage within the joint gradually wears down. As the joint degenerates, the body may form bone spurs (osteophytes) around the joint. These bone spurs restrict movement and cause friction during walking.

Common signs of hallux rigidus include:

• Pain at the base of the big toe
• Stiffness when bending the toe upward
• Difficulty walking or pushing off the foot
• A visible bony lump on top of the toe joint
• Increased pain during cold weather or physical activity

Without treatment, the condition can gradually worsen and limit daily activities.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Hallux Rigidus

In early stages, conservative treatments may help delay or prevent the need for surgery.

Common non-surgical treatments include:

• Footwear modifications to reduce pressure on the toe joint
• Pain management strategies
• Orthotics or supportive insoles
• Gentle mobility exercises for the big toe
• Physiotherapy to improve joint movement and reduce stiffness

If symptoms continue despite these treatments, surgery such as a cheilectomy may be recommended.

What is Cheilectomy Surgery?

A cheilectomy is performed when bone spurs and excess bone are restricting movement in the big toe joint.

During the procedure:

A small incision is made over the big toe joint.

The surgeon removes bone spurs or excess bone from the joint.

The joint surfaces are smoothed to reduce friction during movement.

The incision is closed with stitches.

This procedure helps restore joint mobility and reduce pain while preserving the natural joint.

However, if the joint structures such as cartilage or ligaments are severely damaged, joint fusion surgery may be considered instead.

Symptoms After Cheilectomy Surgery

After surgery, it is normal to experience temporary symptoms while the tissues heal.

Common post-surgical symptoms include:

• Pain around the surgical site
• Swelling around the toe joint
• Stiffness in the big toe
• Mild discomfort while walking
• Sensitivity around the scar

Early rehabilitation is important to restore movement and prevent long-term stiffness.

Physiotherapy After Cheilectomy Surgery

Physiotherapy is essential to ensure a safe and effective recovery after hallux rigidus surgery.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, our physiotherapists develop personalised rehabilitation programmes based on your surgical procedure and recovery progress.

Week 0–1 After Surgery

The primary goal during the first week is to reduce swelling and protect the surgical area.

Treatment may include:

• Elevation of the foot
• Ice therapy to reduce swelling
• Use of a firm-soled post-operative shoe
• Gentle ankle and foot mobility exercises
• Strengthening exercises for hips, knees, and ankles
• Passive movement exercises for the big toe guided by a physiotherapist

Week 1–2 After Surgery

During this stage, gradual weight-bearing and mobility training begin.

Physiotherapy may include:

• Walking pattern assessment and correction
• Balance and stability exercises
• Foot muscle strengthening exercises
• Mobility exercises for the big toe joint
• Scar management techniques such as self-massage

These treatments help improve joint mobility and reduce strain on the foot.

Week 2 and Beyond

As healing progresses, rehabilitation focuses on restoring normal movement and confidence while walking.

Treatment may include:

• Progressive strengthening exercises for the foot and lower limb
• Functional movement training for walking and stairs
• Balance and coordination exercises
• Gait retraining to restore natural walking patterns

Rehabilitation is adjusted to each patient’s recovery pace to ensure safe return to full activity.

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Cheilectomy

Structured physiotherapy rehabilitation offers several benefits after hallux rigidus surgery.

Benefits include:

• Reduced pain and swelling
• Improved big toe mobility
• Restored walking ability
• Improved balance and stability
• Increased lower-limb strength
• Greater confidence in daily activities

Physiotherapy also helps prevent compensatory walking patterns that may cause problems in other joints.

Hallux Rigidus Rehabilitation at ACE PHYSIO SPORTS

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, our physiotherapists specialise in foot and ankle rehabilitation and post-surgical physiotherapy.

Our personalised programmes are designed to:

• Restore range of motion in the big toe joint
• Improve walking mechanics
• Strengthen the surrounding muscles
• Reduce pain and stiffness
• Support safe return to normal activities and exercise

Our clinic is conveniently located on East Coast Road in Singapore, serving patients from Katong, Marine Parade, and surrounding areas.

To arrange an appointment:

📞 Call +65 81535374 🌐 Visit acephysiosport.com