{"id":688,"date":"2025-07-06T10:16:13","date_gmt":"2025-07-06T10:16:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/podcare.gr\/?post_type=pathology&p=688"},"modified":"2026-04-23T11:21:59","modified_gmt":"2026-04-23T11:21:59","slug":"hallux-valgus-bunion","status":"publish","type":"pathology","link":"https:\/\/podcare.gr\/en\/pathology\/hallux-valgus-bunion\/","title":{"rendered":"Hallux Valgus (Bunion)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Hallux valgus<\/strong>, commonly known as a bunion, is a deformity of the big toe in which the toe deviates towards the other toes, forming a characteristic bony prominence at its base. This condition may cause pain, inflammation, and difficulty walking if not managed promptly and appropriately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

Causes and Risk Factors<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hallux valgus may be hereditary or caused by external factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Genetic predisposition<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 If there is a family history, the risk of developing the condition increases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 It is associated with ligament laxity and weakness of the foot muscles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Inappropriate footwear<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Tight shoes or high heels push the big toe towards the smaller toes and shift the centre of gravity onto the forefoot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Shoes with a narrow toe box increase pressure at the base of the big toe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Pathological conditions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Flat feet: Lack of proper arch support may place additional stress on the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritides may cause joint deformity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Neurological conditions that affect muscular balance in the foot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Gait pattern and overloading<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Incorrect weight distribution on the sole, with increased pressure on specific areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Repetitive strain (e.g. in athletes, dancers) may worsen the condition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 A bony prominence at the base of the big toe, which may become swollen and painful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Pain and redness in the joint, especially after prolonged standing or wearing tight footwear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Stiffness and restricted movement of the big toe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Development of calluses or corns due to friction and pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Secondary deformities of the other toes (e.g. hammer toes).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diagnosis<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Diagnosis is made through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Clinical examination to assess the deformity and the mobility of the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Foot X-ray, to evaluate the angle of the deformity and the possible presence of arthritic changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Management and Treatment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Conservative methods<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Footwear modification:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Choosing wide shoes made of soft material that do not compress the big toe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Avoiding narrow or high-heeled shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Orthotic aids:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Toe separators or silicone pads to prevent friction and reduce pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Orthotic insoles, especially in individuals with flat feet or poor weight distribution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Physiotherapy and exercises:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Stretching and strengthening of the foot muscles to support the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Balance training for proper distribution of pressure across the foot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Avoidance of prolonged standing or intense activities that place strain on the bunion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Anti-inflammatory medication (e.g. ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Night splints: Used to help maintain the correct position of the big toe during sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Minimally invasive treatments (if the bunion causes significant pain)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Cortisone injections: Used to reduce inflammation, but they do not correct the deformity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Laser therapy and Shockwave Therapy: Methods that help reduce inflammation and stiffness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Surgical Treatment (In Severe Cases)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Surgical treatment is indicated when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Pain significantly interferes with walking and daily activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 The deformity affects the other toes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Conservative methods have not been effective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prevention<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Wear appropriate shoes that allow the toes to move freely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Avoid prolonged use of high heels or tight footwear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Perform stretching and foot exercises, especially if there is a predisposition to bunions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 Monitor changes in the anatomy of your foot, particularly if there is a family history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When to Visit the Podiatrist<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 If the bunion causes persistent pain or difficulty walking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 If the deformity worsens over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2013 If there is swelling, inflammation, or injury in the area.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Hallux valgus (bunion)<\/strong> can be managed conservatively or surgically, depending on its severity. Early intervention and proper foot care can help prevent complications and reduce pain.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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