What is Bunion (Hallux Valgus)?
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a painful bony lump that can develop on the side of your foot and affect how you walk
Hallux valgus refers to the outward deviation of the big toe (1st metatarsal phalangeal joint), typically associated with over-riding of the 2nd toe due to over-crowding. And as a result of friction and pressure, the inner aspect will usually become very prominent, often inflamed and painful (bunion).
Symptoms
Bunion (Hallux valgus) is not an isolated problem of the 1st big toe, but a complex deformity involving the entire forefoot as a result of muscle imbalances. So patients will notice a change in the shape of the foot with a marked outward deviation of the big toe and over-riding 2nd toe. As a result of the deformities, patients will usually develop painful pressure points over the inner aspect of the big toe joint, on top of the 2nd toe as well as pain under the ball of the 2nd toe. Patients will also find it difficult to wear shoes and walk due to the widening of the forefoot and the painful bunion.
Assessment
At HC Orthopaedic clinic, we will take a thorough history, X rays of the feet and physical examination to fully evaluate the cause of the foot pain and deformity. We will tailor our treatment according to the severity of the foot deformity and the patients’ unique needs.
Treatment
Treatment can be divided into:
- Non operative
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corrective Insoles, Hallux valgus splint
- Surgery
- hallux valgus correction, forefoot reconstruction with excision of the bunion
