Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
For many patients with early to moderate hallux rigidus, a cheilectomy can provide significant pain relief without requiring joint fusion or replacement. As arthritis develops within the big toe joint, bone spurs often form along the top of the joint, limiting movement and causing pain during walking, exercise, and daily activities. A cheilectomy focuses on removing these painful bone spurs while preserving as much of the natural joint as possible. This procedure is commonly recommended for patients who still have remaining cartilage and wish to maintain flexibility in the joint. Early intervention may help improve function, reduce symptoms, and delay the progression of arthritis.
Cheilectomy for hallux rigidus in NYC is a surgical procedure designed to remove bone spurs and damaged tissue from the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The procedure is commonly recommended for patients with mild to moderate hallux rigidus who continue to experience pain despite conservative treatment. Bone spurs often develop as the body responds to joint degeneration and can significantly restrict movement. Patients frequently notice pain while walking uphill, climbing stairs, exercising, or bending the toe upward. These symptoms can interfere with daily activities and reduce overall quality of life. A cheilectomy aims to improve joint motion by eliminating mechanical blockages within the joint. Unlike fusion procedures, the goal is to preserve natural movement whenever possible. The surgery is often performed before severe arthritis develops. Proper patient selection plays an important role in achieving successful outcomes. Understanding the degree of cartilage damage helps determine whether a cheilectomy is the most appropriate treatment option.

At To Healthy Feet Podiatry, every patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation before surgery is recommended. Diagnostic imaging helps assess cartilage health, joint space narrowing, and the extent of bone spur formation. Treatment recommendations are tailored to the patient’s symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term goals. For appropriate candidates, cheilectomy can provide substantial pain relief while maintaining joint mobility. Many patients experience improved comfort during walking and physical activity after recovery. Postoperative rehabilitation focuses on restoring motion and minimizing stiffness. Follow-up visits allow for ongoing monitoring of healing and functional improvement. Although cheilectomy does not reverse arthritis, it can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Patients often appreciate the ability to preserve their natural joint function. Our goal is to help individuals return to daily activities with greater comfort and confidence.

TESTIMONIAL
Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
Everyone was super friendly. Doctor Rick’s explained everything thoroughly.
Dr Bell was incredibly thorough and personable. Gave me great information and useful information for my next steps. A great experience!
“Fast, professional, and very clean office. I was checked in and seen within 10 minutes of my scheduled time. Dr. Ricks was straight to the point but thorough. The front desk staff was also incredibly helpful.
All of the staff are super welcoming and professional! Bianca took excellent care in getting my X-rays. Dr. Ricks was thorough in explaining my diagnosis and next steps. Highly recommended!!
Well before I came in today to see Dr. Ricks my foot in pain was 9/10 and now I feel good 🙏🏿🤩 thanks
Behind every great care experience is a team that truly listens. Our doctors are committed to understanding your needs, delivering personalized treatment, and supporting you every step of your health journey.

Dr. Farah Alani is a New York City foot and ankle surgeon at To Healthy Feet Podiatry, a boutique podiatry practice located in the heart…

Dr. Alison Bell was born in Manhattan and is a Public Health graduate of Charles R. Drew University. She obtained her medical degree from Kent…

Dr. Roxann Clarke is a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Master of Science…

Dr. Ricks is a board-certified fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon committed to delivering top-tier foot and ankle care. From New Jersey, she a Bachelor’s in…

As the Chief Operating Officer of To Healthy Feet Podiatry, Tiffany provides leadership to ensure all administrative are producing optimal results. Dr….
Our award-winning podiatrists at 4 Manhattan locations treat every condition — from heel pain to minimally invasive surgery — with care plans built around your lifestyle and budget.
Available at all 4 NYC locations
Walk in, walk out — no general anesthesia
We handle the billing so you don't have to
As seen in Forbes & InStyle Magazine