Hallux valgus
Hallux valgus, also known as a bunion, is a deformity of the big toe joint in which the big toe turns inwards towards the other toes. This can create a bump on the side of the foot, which can be painful and make wearing certain shoes difficult.
Causes
Hallux valgus is often caused by wearing tight or narrow shoes, by genetics or by certain medical conditions.
Treatment
Treatment can consist of wearing wider shoes, using insoles or, in severe cases, surgery. We are happy to advise you on insoles and suitable footwear – make an appointment.
Scientific evidence
- Orthoses provide short-term symptom relief; correcting the toe position itself requires surgery. Torkki M, Malmivaara A, Seitsalo S, et al. Surgery vs orthosis vs watchful waiting for hallux valgus: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2001;285:2474-2480. PubMed 11368700
- Custom orthoses reduced forefoot pain in rheumatoid arthritis, hallux valgus and metatarsalgia by redistributing pressure under the forefoot. Arias-Martín I, Reina-Bueno M, Munuera-Martínez PV Effectiveness of custom-made foot orthoses for treating forefoot pain: a systematic review. Int Orthop. 2018;42:1865-1875. PubMed 29423640
- Cochrane review: the strongest evidence for custom orthoses is for painful high-arched feet, with further evidence for foot pain in (juvenile) rheumatoid arthritis, plantar fasciitis and hallux valgus. Hawke F, Burns J, Radford JA, du Toit V Custom-made foot orthoses for the treatment of foot pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;(3):CD006801. PubMed 18646168
Trouble with your feet? We are happy to help.
First consultation usually within 1 week, in Oldenzaal, Denekamp or Losser.