HALLUX VALGUS

A bunion, also called a hallux valgus, is an enlargement of bone or soft tissues around the joint at the base of the big toe that results in the formation of a bump. The bone that joins the big toe with the first metatarsal bone thickens and enlarges, tightening the tendons, which in turn causes the base of the big toe to angle out resulting in a painful bony deformity.

Causes

The most common cause of a bunion is prolonged wearing of ill-fitting footwear that compress the toes into unnatural positions. This can include high heeled shoes, narrow shoes, shoes that are too small or pointy shoes with a narrow toe box. Genetics and certain disease conditions such as arthritis or polio may increase the risk of developing a bunion.

Bunions are much more prevalent in women than men, which may be associated with the use of heels and fashionable shoes by women.

Treatment

Your surgeon initially will recommend conservative treatment measures with the goal of reducing or eliminating foot pain.

Such measures include wearing properly fitted shoes with specially designed shoe inserts, padding, or taping of bunions. Physical therapy and certain medications may be prescribed for relieving pain and inflammation.

If conservative measures fail to treat the bunion pain, then your surgeon may recommend a surgical procedure to remove the bunion.

There are many surgical options to treat a bunion but the common goal is to realign the joint, correct the deformity, and to relieve pain and discomfort.

Osteotomy is a common type of bunion surgery that involves surgical cutting and realignment of the toe joint. The orthopaedic surgeon selects the appropriate surgical procedure based on the patient’s presentation.