What is Hallux Valgus (Bunion)? How is it Treated?

Hallux valgus, or bunion, is one of the most common issues affecting the big toe and the first metatarsophalangeal joint connecting the big toe to the foot.

What is Hallux Valgus (HV)?

Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, is typically described as a visible bump on the side of the big toe. This visible bump actually reflects changes in the skeletal structure at the front of the foot. Instead of pointing straight ahead, the big toe leans toward the second toe. This misalignment of bones creates the "bump" of the bunion.

What Causes Hallux Valgus (HV)?

Hallux valgus is a progressive disorder. It begins with the big toe leaning, gradually altering the angle of the bones over years and slowly forming the characteristic bump. Symptoms usually appear in advanced stages, though some individuals may never experience symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of Hallux Valgus (HV)?

Symptoms not visible to the eye may include pain, inflammation, redness, a burning sensation, and possible numbness around the bunion area. 
Symptoms are most often triggered by wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, which explains why women report symptoms more frequently than men. Additionally, spending long periods on your feet can worsen the symptoms..The visible symptom is the bump on the side of the foot, which often causes not only pain but also significant health and cosmetic concerns for the patient. The joint may partially or fully dislocate.

How is Hallux Valgus (HV) Treated?

Halluks Valgus is one of the most common forefoot deformities treated surgically. Common complaints include pain (with or without physical activity), difficulty choosing and wearing shoes, limping, and challenges walking on uneven surfaces.. In the long term, the condition may develop to severely affect other toes or even the entire foot.  Aside from restricting walking, running, and athletic activities, this condition makes simple tasks like choosing and wearing normal shoes extremely challenging The prevalence of this deformity ranges from 12% to 56%, with 80% having a family history, most commonly inherited from the mother. It is also more frequent in women.

Many studies on the impact of hallux valgus severity on overall and foot-specific health confirm its significantly negative effects. Hallux valgus surgery positively affects health-related quality of life. There is no known prophylaxis to prevent the deformity; conservative measures only temporarily relieve pain. On the other hand, surgical procedures are complex and require experienced surgical teams with advanced equipment. Osteotomies combined with soft tissue procedures are generally the preferred surgeries.