We often mention hallux valgus (otherwise known as hallux valgus toe) in our articles. Both terms refer basically to the same problem, which can be more or less painful. It all depends on how we approach it, whether we start treatment early, etc.
Before we get to the article, however, we want to point out that we are neither physiotherapists nor podiatrists. Our knowledge comes mainly from our partners and years of experience in creating healthy footwear. In our article you will learn, among other things, how hallux valgus toe is formed and what you can do about it.
What are hallux valgus?
Hallux is a condition that involves a significant outward deviation of the toe and a simultaneous deviation of the 1st metatarsal bone toward the inner edge of the foot. It is not only a cosmetic problem, but can be a serious health issue. Hallux valgus causes pain when standing, walking and, if untreated, can even affect other peripheral joints of the lower extremities.
The condition of hallux valgus development depends largely on a person’s genetic predisposition, lifestyle, the type of footwear worn and many other factors. In some people it will be only a minor protrusion, while in another person – a serious health problem.
How do hallux valgus arise? The causes can be congenital and acquired. Among the most common causes are:
- bad exercise habits,
- ill-fitting footwear (compression of the front part of the shoe),
- genetic tendency to degeneration.
- diseases of rheumatic origin,
- impaired mechanics of the musculoskeletal apparatus.
Symptoms of hallux valgus toe
How to recognize when more serious hallux problems are coming. In addition to the obvious symptoms, such as a growing ,,protrusion” on the side of the foot, symptoms of hallux valgus can include:
- hallux pain, a discomfort of the antero-medial part of the forefoot,
- palpation tenderness,
- morning sensation of stiffness in the toes and/or foot,
- appearing thickened epidermis, corns, growths,
- restriction of the range of mobility of the toe,
- nerve conduction disturbances in the form of numbness on the dorsal side of the foot,
- often symptoms of inflammation of the hallux.
If you notice these symptoms in yourself, it’s high time to take an interest in the subject and get treatment. Depending on the severity, there are several steps you can take to get your foot back on track.
Hallux valgus treatment
The methods of treating hallux valgus largely depend on the severity of the deformity. While at the very beginning we can quietly counteract the changes with appropriate exercises and footwear, at some point (especially if we neglect this) surgery may be necessary.
When is there a need for hallux valgus surgery?
Hallux valgus surgery is performed when conservative treatment of hallux valgus (such as exercise, rehabilitation, other footwear) does not yield results. The lesions progress more rapidly, cause significant discomfort and can affect the health of the rest of the musculoskeletal system. Indications for surgery also include age, the patient’s expectations, the type of work performed. All these factors are important insofar as they determine the type of surgery performed, as there are several methods.
Bunion toe – what is the treatment?
As before any surgery, a number of tests are conducted to assess potential risks. It is important to go to a physiotherapist already before the operation, who will determine how the rehabilitation should proceed, what shoes to choose, what exercises to perform, how to walk on crutches, so as not to spoil the effects of hallux valgus surgery.
Depending on the condition of the deformity, we distinguish such methods of hallux valgus surgery as:
- joint capsule and tendon correction, which involves loosening ligaments and shortening the joint capsule,
- Chevron osteotomy, which involves cutting a wedge in the bone, allowing the toe structure to extend outward. It is then stabilized with a screw.
- Scarf method, which is also an incision of the metatarsal bone, but to a greater extent (for more severe deformities). The bone is stabilized with small screws and the soft tissues are surgically modified.
- The Ludloff method, which involves incision of the foot and displacement of the bone structure with a screw, as well as ligament and joint capsule surgery.
wedge and semicircular osteotomy, which involves cutting a bone wedge and moving it or removing it completely.
Hallux valgus surgery is reimbursed by the National Health Service, but be aware that waiting times can be very long. The price of surgery privately can range from several to several thousand zlotys.
Rehabilitation after hallux valgus surgery
Sick leave after hallux valgus surgery can last up to several weeks. It is very important to follow ALL the recommendations of the doctor and physiotherapist, because if you neglect rehabilitation and, for example, move the screw – the entire operation may be in vain. It is important not to strain the toe and keep it in the right position, so that any treatment performed will have time to heal and consolidate.
It can take 2 to 3 months to return to full function, as long as all recommendations are followed, of course.
Are there home treatments for hallux valgus?
As we always say, it is best to contact professionals for any condition. If the toe deformity is in its early stages, then you can assist with some exercises or devices.
A certain device that involves strapping the toe and moving it outward with a special knob has become very popular – gradually and, for example, more and more each day. This item has caused quite a bit of controversy, as many people have not seen any change even after using it for a long time.
Toe separators can be helpful in counteracting hallux valgus. They allow the toes to expand with soft and flexible , “blocks”, so that the toes return to their natural position and rest from constant pressure, for example, by shoes.
Of course, it is extremely important to wear proper footwear and go barefoot as often as possible, but we will describe this issue in the next paragraph.
Exercises for a hallux valgus
Sample exercises for a crooked toe might look like this:
Step 1: In a seated position on a chair, place your feet flat on the floor. Slowly flex your toes, moving them gently across the floor. Stay in this position for about 4-5 minutes.
Step 2: Continue in the same position as before. Now it’s time to slowly straighten your toes, pointing them toward the ceiling. Perform this movement for 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Still sitting in the chair, raise your lower limb slightly above the ground. Focus on slowly climbing up on your toes, but without putting weight on your foot. Perform this exercise for 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Return to a seated position on a chair, but this time raise your foot gently above the ground. The task is to slowly flex the sole and dorsal flexion, respecting the natural range of motion of the foot. Practice in this position for 4-5 minutes.
You can also find foot exercises in a special e-book, but if you are post-surgery, consult with your doctor or physiotherapist.
Hallux valgus treatment with footwear?
One of the best ways to prevent hallux valgus is to wear the right footwear. We have repeatedly described how poor quality shoes or stilettos affect your foot. Constantly compressed bones, muscles and tendons eventually MUST give in.
We won’t go to work or an event barefoot, but we can choose footwear that is wide at the toe and gives full freedom. Zero compression, zero chafing.
In addition, thanks to the zero-drop sole, you don’t rest your body weight on the forefoot, which also helps prevent hallux valgus. Needless to say, after undergoing surgery and doing all the rehabilitation, such shoes will guarantee that hallux will not return. Unless they are exceptionally nasty and genetically determined, but it will certainly be more comfortable to walk in barefoot shoes than regular shoes.
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