Understanding and improving movement in patients with stiff big toes
Official title: Characterizing and Restoring Joint Motion in Patients with Hallux Rigidus
Funded at Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10906077 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to improve movement in the big toe joint for people with hallux rigidus, aiming to create new implants that help you move better and live pain-free without the issues that come with current surgeries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $263,768 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR076475-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906077 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of hallux rigidus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe joint damage that cannot be addressed by new implant designs may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on hallux rigidus, a common condition affecting the big toe joint due to osteoarthritis. It aims to characterize the joint's movement and develop new implant designs that can restore function without the complications associated with current surgical treatments. By studying the mechanical environment of the joint and its 3D movement, the research seeks to create solutions that allow patients to engage in daily activities without pain or mobility restrictions. Patients may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials that evaluate these new approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical options that restore joint function and enhance the quality of life for patients with hallux rigidus.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been attempts to develop implants for this condition, this research is exploring novel approaches that have not yet been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ledoux, William R. — Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
- Study coordinator: Ledoux, William R.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.