The big toe protrusion problem, which can happen to many people, is known as hallux valgus by its medical name. Alright,What is hallux valgus?What causes hallux valgus? How is it treated?

WHAT CAUSES HALLUKS VALGUS?

Hallux valgus; It is a condition that affects the joint between the 1st toe and the 1st metatarsal bone. This swelling and protrusion in the joint is called a “bunion”. In fact, this is the painful protrusion and deformity of the big toes, which is predominantly seen in women and negatively affects social life. This condition, which is very common in women, is caused by a high genetic predisposition. It is more common in women who wear high heels and pointed-toed shoes for a long time. Wide shoes in which the toes can move easily reduce the incidence of hallux valgus.

IT CAN CAUSE UNBEATABLE PAIN

A series of complaints occur as a result of hallux valgus. Calluses form due to constant pressure and friction. The underlying soft tissue responds by thickening. These structures cause pain in the patient. To reduce this pain, it is necessary to reduce the pressure. This is possible by reducing the pressure created by the shoe from the outside or by surgically removing the bony prominence inside. Complaints due to hallux valgus; It usually takes place in a bony prominence called a “bunion”. It is often painful and women have a hard time finding comfortable shoes.

PHYSICIAN EXAMINATION PREVENTS THE PROGRESS OF THE DISEASE

The diagnosis is made by a detailed clinical examination after the patients apply to the physician. The diagnosis is confirmed by imaging methods such as x-rays. The angles between the bones are measured by your doctor, which helps in determining the method of treatment with X-rays.

In the treatment of hallux valgus, in the early stages of the disease, replacing pointed shoes with wide-fronted shoes can reduce the complaints. Wide shoes are helpful in reducing pain by reducing the pressure on the bunion. In addition, it can be aimed to reduce pressure and pain with special pads and interdigital rollers.

DEFINITE RESULTS CAN BE PROVIDED WITH THE SURGICAL METHOD

If all non-surgical methods cannot relieve the patient’s pain or if the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage, surgical treatment options are considered.
Bunionectomy (Bunion removal): If hallux valgus is in the early stage, only bunion removal may be effective. With the incision made over the bunion, the protruding bone tissue below is cut with suitable orthopedic material. The bone is shaved.

Metatarsal Osteotomy (Correction of the Bone): Generally, in hallux valgus surgery, when bunionectomy alone is not sufficient to correct the deformity, it may be necessary to correct the comb bone with incisions. An incision is made in the bone; The angle that creates the deformity in the bone and joint is corrected. Patients are followed up with bandage or plaster treatment after surgery. The patient, who stands up with crutches on the first day after the operation, is walked. It is not allowed to step on the operated foot. Stitches are removed on the 15th day of the surgery. If there is bone union in 6 weeks, metal nails are removed and the patient is allowed to press. This healing process of about 6 weeks should be considered as a minor problem alongside your big complaints such as the negative effects of the disease in your social life and pain all the time.