What to expect from a cortisone injection for hallux rigidus

Hallux rigidus is stiffness and arthritis in the big-toe joint. The clinician examines the joint, cleans the skin, and places medicine into or around the joint with a fine needle. Local anaesthetic may be included, and image guidance can assist positioning. Expect a brief sting or pressure, followed by tenderness around the toe.

Relief may build over several days, and the amount of benefit varies. A cortisone injection can calm irritation but cannot remove a bony prominence, correct footwear pressure, or rebuild damaged cartilage. Mention diabetes, allergies, blood-thinning medicines, infection, and previous reactions beforehand.

Keep walking and standing light on the day of the procedure, using the footwear or dressing recommended by your clinician. Avoid running, jumping, and tight shoes until tenderness settles. A stiff-soled or roomier shoe may reduce bending pressure at the big-toe joint; ask before changing footwear or activity.

Return to walking gradually and note whether push-off, stairs, and ordinary shoes become easier. Toe and foot exercises may preserve comfortable movement, but do not force a painful range. If relief is limited, review other non-surgical options and the mechanical cause of symptoms.

Contact the treating service for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, fever, or worsening toe pain. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, faintness, or widespread hives. Arrange assessment if you cannot bear weight, the toe becomes newly numb or weak, or severe pain follows an injury.

Ask whether the medicine will enter the joint, which shoes and activities are suitable afterward, when walking exercise can resume, and what to consider if stiffness continues.