Learn about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment of hallux valgus (bunion).
Hallux valgus (bunion) is a condition in which the big toe bends outward and the joint sticks out like a lump. It is often hereditary, but it also develops when high heels with a narrow toe box or tight-fitting shoes shift the body's center of gravity forward and put pressure on the toes. The protruding joint is irritated by the shoe, becomes thickened and inflamed, and causes pain. If left untreated, the toe bends more and more and can lead to walking problems or arthritis of the toe joint, so early treatment is needed.
01
Throbbing pain at the protruding part of the big toe
02
Blisters or calluses where the joint rubs against the shoe
03
Knee and lower back pain when walking
04
The bent big toe causes deformity of the other toes
05
Feet tire after walking for a long time, and wearing dress shoes is difficult
Hereditary factors such as flat feet
Congenital toe deformity
Poor habits such as wearing high heels or narrow shoes
Hallux valgus is diagnosed by visual inspection and palpation (toe shape, calluses, etc.). X-rays are needed to decide on the treatment plan.
They are used to measure the angles between the bones, joint deformity and inflammation, and range of motion.
TREATMENT
Treatment depends on the patient's symptoms, the severity of the deformity, and the goal of treatment (controlling inflammation and pain, or also correcting the appearance). If hallux valgus is mild, wide and soft shoes, corrective insoles or orthotic devices are used to control symptoms and slow the progression of the deformity. If the deformity is severe, it must be corrected with surgery. During surgery, the protruding bone is shaved down and the length of the ligaments and soft tissues is adjusted.
If symptoms are mild, get plenty of rest and wear comfortable shoes so the protruding area is not irritated. Anti-inflammatory medication is effective for relieving inflammation.
[Medication]
Treatment with medications such as anti-inflammatory pain relievers to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgery is performed when the deformity is severe or pain makes it difficult to wear shoes.
[Bunion Correction Surgery]
Surgery that shaves down the protruding bone, cuts the misaligned bone to correct the angle, and lengthens the muscles and soft tissues.
