Hallux valgus: when the big toe is crooked

With hallux valgus, the big toe angles towards the outside of the foot while the metatarsal bone shifts inwards. This creates the typical bunion at the base of the big toe. Many people have no complaints for a long time – others suffer from pressure pain, inflammation and difficulty finding shoes.

How does hallux valgus develop?

• Predisposition – hallux valgus often runs in families
• Splay foot and weak connective tissue
• Tight, pointed shoes and high heels that squeeze the toes together
• Women are affected much more often than men

Typical complaints

• Pressure pain and redness at the bunion, especially in shoes
• Inflamed bursa over the joint
• Corns and calluses on the toes and under the forefoot
• The second toe is pushed aside and can become a hammer toe

What helps?

The deformity itself cannot be reversed without surgery – but the discomfort can often be relieved considerably:

• Wide, soft shoes with plenty of room in the forefoot – tips in our shoe guide
• Insoles to support the transverse arch (medical prescription, orthopaedic shoe technician)
• Pads and toe spreaders made of silicone that take pressure off the bunion
• Foot exercises, e.g. spreading the toes and picking up objects with your toes

If pain is severe or the deformity progresses, an orthopaedic specialist can advise you on further options, including surgery.

How we help

We relieve painful pressure points with custom pads and silicone orthoses, gently remove corns and calluses and take care of nails that grow in or press because of the deformity. This makes walking more comfortable again.