Bunion (Hallux valgus)

This is a complaint affecting many people, when the big toe turns towards the other toes.

• Development
  The complaint begins when the transversal arch drops, the foot spreads and because of this the first and second metatarsals move away from each other. The tendons strongly attached to the proximal phalange of the big toe do not shorten and thus, breaking the base joint of the great toe, it is drawn towards and under the second toe. The second toe, making space for the big toe, deforms in a hammer toe-like manner.
• Symptoms
  Due to the constant irritation of the shoe, the small bursa above the inward pointing bunion often becomes inflamed and sometimes even festers. (The condition is very painful even without inflammation.) The inflammation can spread to the surrounding periosteum. Due to the fallen transversal arch, a painful callus develops on the sole. The hammer toe is awful in itself (see below).
• Prevention
  It is very important to know that bunions and hammer toes develop due to dropped transversal arches so using orthotic insoles in time can prevent their development.
• Pressure point image
  Due to the dropped transversal arch, the forefoot is not supported on the ground in its usual places but at the head of the 3rd metatarsal (1) and on the heel. This means that the foot rests on two points instead of three, and this uncertain contact with the ground causes the muscles of the calves and thighs to tire more quickly. The absence of the arch means that walking loses its flexibility and ease. This is especially disturbing for people who do sport. The foot spreads, that is to say the metatarsals fan out from each other. The big toe turns inwards (3) as the strong ligament attached to it pulls it inwards. A swelling forms on the first joint of the toe (2), which is called a bunion or hallux valgus.
• Treatment
  A good orthotic insole has an important role in preventing both the development and further deterioration of bunions. Prolonged use of the orthotic insole may lead to the regeneration of the arch. Fixed, neglected bunions can only be removed surgically. After the operation wearing an orthosis is "obligatory".