The big-toe joint contributes to push-off. Too little movement can affect gait and footwear, but aggressively forcing the joint before healing may worsen inflammation. The timing and direction of mobilisation depend on the procedure.
Persistent pain also requires diagnosis rather than being labelled simply as slow recovery. Potential sources include joint arthritis, sesamoid pain, fixation irritation, nerve symptoms, transfer loading, recurrence or complex regional pain syndrome.
Begin approved movement at the stage specified by the surgeon.
Control swelling and restore gait progressively.
Use physiotherapy or podiatry-led rehabilitation when clinically indicated.
Reassess pain that plateaus or deteriorates instead of repeatedly increasing activity.
Can stiffness always be prevented?
No. Rehabilitation reduces avoidable stiffness, but joint condition, surgery and individual scarring responses also matter.