Hallux Valgus

Common Symptoms
Hallux valgus commonly known as bunions are defined as a progressive deformity of the big toe joint. It results in pain, swelling around the big toe joint, reduced functional mobility whilst walking or running all of which, may negatively impact an individual’s quality of life.

How it occurs
As seen in the image, hallux valgus results in structural malalignment causing the big toe joint to deviate towards the 2nd toe. The onset of this condition appears to be multifactorial with intrinsic and extrinsic factors playing a role in its development:

-          Foot rolls in excessively (pronation)

-          Tight calf muscles, reduced Ankle joint range of motion

-          Ligament laxity

-          Strong connection between genetics  

-          Inappropriate footwear, narrow toe box shoes or high heels

What we may assess to obtain a diagnosis
Diagnosis is always subject to symptomatic complaint in conjunction with clinical testing performed by your podiatrist. Test performed may include touching (palpation) the painful area, joint range of motion to assess and an assessment of your walking or running (gait).

At The Running Room and Posh Pod, we are equipped with a pressure plate treadmill (Zebris) allowing us to comprehensively assess plantar pressures within the feet. Additionally, your podiatrist may send you for radiographic imaging to assess the severity and/or degree of the deformity although, this is not always necessary.

Management and how long does it take?

Hallux valgus is a permanent condition with management modalities and treatment time frames varying on a case-by-case basis. Conservative care requires both monitoring and symptomatic relief whereas, post-operative recovery ranges between 8-12 weeks.

Conservative modalities may include footwear adjustments, custom orthotics when indicated, specific foot strengthening exercises, padding such as, bunion shields and toe spacers. General podiatry is required to maintain skin integrity, reduce callous, and to minimise the risk of nail deformity if present.

In severe cases and if conservative treatment fails, surgical or oral/injectable anti-inflammatory medication may be considered in collaboration with your general practitioner where an appropriate referral will be made. Post-operative treatment can be provided by your podiatrist and may include a combination of general podiatry care, foot specific exercises, footwear adjustments and/or custom orthotics.

Author: Maddie Parker

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