This is a condition where the big toe deviates towards the lesser toes and rotates outwards. This condition is commonly associated with a prominence over the base of the toe called a “bunion”. This deformity can be accentuated by inflammation due to rubbing of shoewear.
symptoms
Pain over the bunion is a common problem. Patients may also have difficulty in wearing appropriate footwear.
SURGICAL treatment
The surgery for Hallux valgus has had a bad reputation in the pass. There are over 150 different types of surgery for Hallux valgus. Some have had better results than others.
Multiple variables must be taken into account for an effective surgery with less chance of recurrence. This includes:
The age of the patient
The degree of deviation of the big toe
The angle between the 1st and the 2nd metatarsal bone
Relative lengths of 1st and 2nd metatarsal
The slope of the head of 1st metatarsal (DMAA) and particular anatomy of the head of this metatarsal
Osteoarthritis, arthritis.
Hypermobility of the 1st ray (very common amongst Asians)
Lesser toe deformities
Essentially, the principles of surgery involves correction of soft tissue imbalances causing the deforming forces to deviate the toe and osteotomies to realign the metatarsal.
