Arthritis Toe Treatment in India

Rohan Davis, a 42-year-old high school...

Rohan Davis, a 42-year-old high school music teacher and amateur marathon runner, began noticing a persistent, sharp pain in his right big toe about two years ago. Initially, he dismissed it as a running injury, but the stiffness and swelling worsened, especially in the mornings. His toe became red, tender, and developed a noticeable bump. Simple joys like playing the piano pedals or his weekend runs became agonizing. His primary care physician referred him to a rheumatologist, Dr. Evans, who diagnosed him with hallux rigidus, a form of arthritis in the big toe joint. After conservative treatments like custom orthotics, anti-inflammatories, and corticosteroid injections provided only temporary relief, Dr. Evans recommended a cheilectomy, a procedure to remove bone spurs and diseased tissue from the joint to preserve motion. Rohan was anxious about surgery and feared it might end his running career. The outpatient procedure went smoothly. The first week of recovery was challenging with swelling and restricted movement, but he diligently followed his physical therapy regimen. Within three months, the debilitating pain was gone. He regained about 80% of his toe's range of motion. While he may never run another marathon, he can now walk pain-free, play music comfortably, and enjoy hiking with his family. Emotionally, he transitioned from frustration and fear of losing his active identity to acceptance and gratitude for reclaiming a pain-free, functional life.