How long does cortisone injection take to work for hallux rigidus?

Hallux rigidus affects the joint at the base of the big toe. Cortisone can reduce irritation inside or around that joint, so walking or wearing shoes may become more comfortable. It cannot remove a bony restriction or restore worn cartilage immediately, which means the toe may still feel stiff even when pain improves.

The response depends on the degree of joint change, the source of pain, footwear, and daily loading. A useful response is often easier walking rather than a completely normal bend at the toe.

Follow the injection aftercare instructions and avoid strenuous push-off, running, or prolonged standing while the toe is sore. Choose footwear with enough room and a sole that does not force the big toe to bend sharply. Return to activity in stages, using pain and swelling as signals to slow down.

Record changes in walking, shoe tolerance, and toe motion. If the effect is limited or short-lived, your clinician can review footwear, exercises, other non-surgical options, or whether the joint needs further assessment. Read about [Hallux Rigidus](/conditions/hallux-rigidus/) and [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/).

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, discharge, fever, or feeling unwell after the injection. Urgent assessment is needed for severe escalating pain, a pale or cold toe, or new numbness that does not settle.

Ask how long to protect the toe, which shoes are suitable, and whether exercises are appropriate for your joint. Discuss what improvement is realistic if stiffness remains, and what plan should follow if walking pain returns.