Mr A.K.

I am a 43 year old male and have suffered from Hallux Rigidus in both feet for a number of years. The restriction in movement from the bone spurs had become extremely painful to the point where any bending of the toe during walking, squatting, etc, was excruciating. I was severely restricted to selection of shoes I could wear due to the pain whilst putting them on and during walking.

I was eventually referred by my GP to Mr Gordon through BUPA and the initial consultation was at the Spire Hospital, Harpenden. The consultation, X-rays, diagnosis and recommendation for a Bilateral Cheilectomy was complete within the hour. After an excellent consultation with Mr Gordon I opted to have the operation on both feet at the same time.

The operation was performed at the Spire Hospital. The hospital staff, Mr Gordon and clinical support made the whole experience relaxed and at every stage we were well informed of what was going on.

I opted for a general anaesthetic, which went smoothly and woke from the operation with both feet bandaged and surgical sandals fitted. I was discharged from hospital the same day with crutches.

Over the next four days, following Mr Gordons excellent post-operative instructions, I suffered no pain with feet elevated (which is very important) and changed the dressing after four days. I could walk (although very tenderly) after a couple of days and could walk in shoes after about a week. I returned to work after two weeks.

It is important to follow the post-operative exercises and although these can be painful in the first instance, the benefits are amazing as the range of motion in the toe increased significantly over the weeks.

Now, three months after the operation, I can easily go for 8-10 mile dog walks at the weekend, my gait has improved dramatically as I can now bend the toes as I walk. Impact activities like squash and football can still be painful, but these are improving each week.

I cannot overemphasise how much this procedure has relieved the pain I was in, although there is still some level of pain in the joint, but this can be expected as the joint is arthritic.

I really want to pass on my personal thanks to Mr Gordon for the operation to allow me to walk pain free again."