Choosing the right surgery for severe big toe arthritis

Helping patients and physicians choose the appropriate surgery for end stage hallux rigidus

NIH-funded research Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10655575

This study is looking to learn more about two different types of surgeries for people with hallux rigidus, a condition that affects the big toe, so that patients and doctors can make better choices about treatment options that could improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSeattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10655575 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to gather observational data to inform a future clinical trial that will compare two surgical options for patients with hallux rigidus, a degenerative arthritis affecting the big toe joint. The study focuses on understanding the effectiveness and safety of arthrodesis, which fuses the joint, versus motion-sparing surgeries that preserve joint movement. By collecting data on patient experiences and outcomes, the research seeks to guide patients and physicians in making informed decisions about surgical interventions. The ultimate goal is to improve quality of life for individuals suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over the age of 50 who are experiencing significant pain and loss of motion in the first metatarsophalangeal joint due to hallux rigidus.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been diagnosed with hallux rigidus or those who are not considering surgical options may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help patients choose the most effective surgical option for managing their big toe arthritis, potentially improving their mobility and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in comparing surgical techniques for similar conditions, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.