Hallux valgus

With hallux valgus the big toe (hallux) deviates at its base joint towards the other toes, while the first metatarsal bone shifts inwards. As a result, the big toe joint protrudes as a bunion. Women are affected much more often than men.

Causes

• hereditary disposition and weak connective tissue
• tight, pointed shoes and high heels
• splayfoot – the most common accompanying deformity
• rheumatic diseases

Typical complaints

• pain and redness on the bunion, especially in shoes
• pressure points, calluses and corns on the bunion or between the toes
• overloading of the forefoot (metatarsalgia)
• secondary deformities of the small toes (hammer toes)

Treatment

The deformity cannot be reversed without surgery – but the complaints can be eased well: wide shoes with soft uppers, insoles, foot exercises and toe spreaders. If the pain is severe, surgery may make sense; an orthopaedic specialist will advise you.

What we do for you

We gently remove painful calluses and corns and protect the bunion from pressure with pads or custom-made silicone orthoses. Read more in our guide Hallux valgus.