Hallux Valgus

Hallux valgus: What is it and how can it be treated?

Hallux valgus, also known as bunion, is a common foot deformity in which the big toe deviates inwards at the lower joint and the metatarsophalangeal joint protrudes outwards. This can lead to pain, swelling, redness, callus formation and bursitis. It can also impair mobility and walking.

Hallux valgus can have various causes, such as genetic predisposition, foot malpositions such as fallen arches or splayfoot, or wearing tight or high shoes. Women are affected more frequently than men.

The treatment of hallux valgus depends on the severity of the deformity and the symptoms. In many cases, conservative measures such as physiotherapy, splints, supports or insoles can help to alleviate the symptoms and correct the deformity. In severe cases or in cases of severe pain, surgery may be necessary to straighten the joint and restore function.

Physiotherapy for hallux valgus

Physiotherapy is an important conservative treatment method for hallux valgus. It aims to strengthen the muscles and connective tissue of the foot, straighten the arch of the foot, improve the mobility of the big toe joint and reduce the deformity.

Physiotherapy for hallux valgus includes various exercises and techniques, such as

- Foot gymnastics: The big toe can be brought into the correct position through targeted movement exercises. This primarily involves training the muscle that pulls the big toe inwards (abductor hallucis muscle). This muscle can still be effective in mild to moderate hallux valgus, but in advanced hallux valgus it has usually slipped over the joint and exacerbates the deformity. Exercises to strengthen the arch of the foot are also carried out to counteract the fallen arches.

- Manual therapy: Gentle mobilization and massage can loosen the big toe joint and promote blood circulation. This can relieve pain and accelerate healing.

- Cold therapy: Cooling the inflamed joint can reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

- Electrotherapy: Electrical stimulation can stimulate the nerves and relax the muscles. This can also help to relieve pain.

- Lymphatic drainage: Special grip techniques can improve the drainage of lymphatic fluid from the foot. This can reduce swelling and support the healing process.

Common forms of hallux valgus

Hallux valgus is not always the same. There are various forms of hallux valgus, which differ in the size of the angle between the first metatarsal bone and the big toe. Depending on the size of the angle, it is referred to as:

- Mild hallux valgus: The angle is less than 20 degrees. The deformity is not yet very visible and usually causes no discomfort.

- Medium hallux valgus: The angle is between 20 and 40 degrees. The deformity is clearly visible and can lead to pain when walking or wearing tight shoes.

- Severe hallux valgus: The angle is more than 40 degrees. The deformity is very pronounced and can lead to severe pain, inflammation, joint wear and movement restrictions.

The shape of the hallux valgus influences the choice of treatment method. In the case of mild hallux valgus, conservative therapy with physiotherapy, splints or supports may be sufficient to correct the deformity. In the case of moderate to severe hallux valgus, surgery may be necessary to straighten the joint and restore function.

Conclusion

Hallux valgus is a common foot deformity that can lead to pain, swelling, redness, callus formation and bursitis. The causes can be genetic or promoted by foot misalignment or incorrect footwear. Treatment depends on the severity of the deformity and the symptoms. In many cases, conservative measures such as physiotherapy, splints, supports or insoles can help to alleviate the symptoms and correct the deformity. In severe cases or in cases of severe pain, surgery may be necessary to straighten the joint and restore function.