Bunions, or hallux valgus
Do you have a bump near your big toe? Bunions, also called hallux valgus, are common and their symptoms can often be relieved. At Laboratoire Orthopédique, we use our expertise to offer solutions adapted to each patient’s needs.
Hallux valgus: how to recognize it
Hallux valgus, or a bunion, is a deviation of the big toe toward the second toe that creates a visible bump and can cause pain. It may also make footwear uncomfortable. More common among women, it is not a bone growth: the toe bone itself is pushed outward.
The big toe is most affected
Hallux valgus primarily affects the big toe, causing it to deviate outward and move closer to the second toe. This deformity creates a bump, or bunion, at the first metatarsal.
What are the symptoms of hallux valgus?
Hallux valgus involves more than toe deviation and can cause other symptoms that affect foot health.
Bunions can be painful
This foot deformity becomes more problematic when walking because the big toe plays an important role in propelling the body forward. Hallux valgus can compromise this function, reduce support and increase pain as the other toes compensate. Without treatment, the condition may progress to hallux rigidus (osteoarthritis of the big toe), which can worsen symptoms.
Other signs and symptoms of a bunion include:
- Toe pain;
- Difficulty putting on or wearing certain shoes;
- Redness and inflammation;
- Development of metatarsal bursitis, corns, calluses or osteoarthritis.
Classification of hallux valgus
Hallux valgus is classified according to severity and complications, based on the angle of deviation of the big toe:
Mild to moderate (grades I–II):
- Deviation angle under 40 degrees.
- Joint mobility is preserved and the condition may be managed with less invasive interventions.
Moderate to severe (grades II–III):
- Pronounced deviation with an angle between 20 and 40 degrees.
- Possible reduced mobility and complications such as corns or bursitis.
Severe with complications (grade III):
- Deviation over 40 degrees with complications such as osteoarthritis or loss of function.
- Significant pain that may require advanced intervention.
Are you experiencing pain?
To address your pain, make an appointment at Laboratoire Orthopédique. Our team is here to help.
Causes of a bunion
Hallux valgus may be caused or aggravated by narrow or high-heeled shoes that place excessive pressure on the front of the foot. This pressure encourages the big toe to deviate and can form a bunion or worsen an existing predisposition.
Other possible causes include:
- A hereditary predisposition to bunions
- Foot shape and mechanics, including an Egyptian foot shape, flat feet or overpronation.
- Poliomyelitis, with muscular and stability changes that promote deviation.
- Rheumatological diseases, such as polyarthritis.
- Factors more common among women, including narrow shoes, heels and menopause.
Hallux valgus treatment: addressing a bunion without surgery
Orthotics and medical treatments can reduce pain and slow the progression of hallux valgus, but they do not remove the bunion. If pain persists despite treatment, surgery may be considered to correct the deformity.
How to help prevent it before it develops
Help prevent hallux valgus by wearing comfortable, roomy shoes without high heels, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising the foot muscles and using foot orthotics when needed.
Did you know that orthotics can help with hallux valgus?
Orthotics for hallux valgus can progressively realign the big toe and reduce pressure and pain. Adapted to the shape of the foot, these orthopedic solutions provide structural support and help prevent the deformity from progressing. At Laboratoire Orthopédique, we offer orthotics and orthopedic shoes adapted to support the big toe and improve comfort and mobility, providing an effective non-invasive option.
Are you experiencing pain?
To address your pain, make an appointment at Laboratoire Orthopédique. Our team is here to help.