Forefoot • deformity • footwear
Hallux valgus (bunion)
Hallux valgus is a progressive deformity of the big toe, often called a bunion. Symptoms depend less on the X-ray appearance than on pain, footwear problems and functional impact.
What symptoms may suggest this condition?
- Pain over the medial bump, especially in narrow shoes.
- Deviation of the big toe, sometimes crowding the lesser toes.
- Forefoot pain or difficulty finding comfortable shoes.
How is the diagnosis confirmed?
Clinical examination assesses deformity, big-toe motion, the forefoot and overall alignment. Weight-bearing X-rays measure the deformity and guide strategy if surgery is considered.
Is surgery always necessary?
Non-operative care aims to reduce symptoms: wider shoes, activity adaptation, local padding and sometimes insoles. It does not correct the bony deformity but may be sufficient when symptoms are moderate.
When should surgery be discussed?
Surgery is considered when pain or footwear difficulty becomes significant. Correction combines bone and soft-tissue procedures tailored to the deformity. Minimally invasive/percutaneous techniques can be appropriate in selected cases, depending on anatomy and severity.
Source patient : AOFAS / AAOS. General information, to be adapted to each clinical situation.
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