What is a Cheilectomy?
Understanding a Cheilectomy and Physiotherapy Treatment
A Cheilectomy is a surgical procedure often performed to relieve pain and improve function in people suffering from hallux rigidus, a form of arthritis that affects the big toe. Over time, wear and tear or injury can lead to the development of bone spurs at the top of the big toe joint, limiting motion and causing discomfort. During a Cheilectomy, these bone spurs are removed to restore motion in the joint.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role both before and after a Cheilectomy. In the lead-up to surgery, a physiotherapist can help by improving joint mobility, strengthening the surrounding muscles, and preparing the patient’s foot for recovery. Following surgery, physiotherapy is crucial to ensure a smooth rehabilitation process and restore optimal function to the affected foot.
Post-Cheilectomy Physiotherapy
Pain Management
Post-surgery, patients often experience swelling and pain around the big toe. A physiotherapist will use techniques such as manual therapy, ice therapy, and gentle mobilisation to manage these symptoms. Gradual mobilisation helps prevent stiffness and scar tissue from forming around the joint, ensuring the restored range of motion isn't lost during recovery.
Restoring Range of Motion
One of the primary goals after a Cheilectomy is to restore the movement of the big toe joint. Physiotherapists will introduce range-of-motion exercises to encourage joint flexibility. These exercises, which may include gentle stretches, will prevent joint stiffness and promote healing. These movements are generally non-weight bearing in the early stages, gradually increasing in intensity as healing progresses.
Strengthening Exercises
Weakness in the muscles surrounding the big toe is common post-surgery, as patients often avoid using the affected foot. A physiotherapist will prescribe strengthening exercises that target the foot and lower leg. These exercises will help improve balance, enhance muscle support around the joint, and prevent further complications.
Gait Training
Gait retraining is essential following a Cheilectomy, as patients often alter their walking patterns due to pain or stiffness. A physiotherapist will help assess and correct these abnormalities to reduce strain on the healing joint and prevent long-term biomechanical issues.
Return to Activity
The final phase of physiotherapy involves helping the patient return to their normal activities. The physiotherapist will guide the individual through exercises and functional tasks that simulate real-life movements, ensuring that the toe joint is strong and flexible enough to handle daily tasks without discomfort.
In summary, physiotherapy is essential in the successful recovery from a Cheilectomy. With targeted interventions like pain management, range-of-motion work, and strengthening, patients can restore mobility and function in their big toe, improving their quality of life.
