Hallux valgus

Hallux valgus is hereditary in most cases. External factors such as high-heeled and tight footwear can promote the misalignment of the big toe. This causes the big toe to shift outwards towards the 2nd toe. This is how the bunion forms.

Due to the misalignment, there is constant pressure from the shoe (shoe conflict), which can lead to swelling, redness, and bursitis at the big toe joint.

In addition to aesthetic problems, patients can experience significant limitations in their mobility.

The misalignment of the big toe often leads to misalignment of the 2nd toe with hammer toe formation and overloading of the small metatarsal bones, which can cause forefoot pain (metatarsalgia).

When is surgery needed?

The misalignment of the big toe can vary in severity. If persistent pain and inflammation occur in the bunion area or forefoot, surgery may be indicated. For a mild form of hallux valgus, a realignment of the 1st metatarsal bone in the lower region of the bunion is sufficient.

What happens during surgery?

Various surgical procedures are employed, depending on the severity of the hallux valgus. The appropriate method is therefore determined after an X-ray examination of the foot under weight-bearing conditions and in three planes. For a mild form of hallux valgus, a realignment of the 1st metatarsal bone in the lower region of the bunion is sufficient. For a severe form of hallux valgus, a realignment of the 1st metatarsal bone in the area of the base or between the first metatarsal bone and the first tarsal bone is necessary.

Aftercare

Following the correction of mild hallux valgus, mobilisation in a post-operative shoe for approximately 4-5 weeks with full weight-bearing is sufficient. For the correction of severe hallux valgus, non-weight-bearing of the operated foot is required for approximately 6 weeks. Swelling in the foot after the operation can, in individual cases, last for approximately 3-4 months.