Specialist in Foot & Ankle Surgery and Children’s Orthopaedics

HALLUX VALGUS

This is the deviation of the big toe towards the outside of the foot. This is a common deformity and is often completely painless. Many patients do suffer from painful feet as a result of this deformity. Pain or aching may occur across the foot or in the toes. Callous or hardened skin may occur under the ball of the foot or along the big toe (hallux).

Treatment is firstly using sensible wide fitting footwear to avoid pressure on the deformed foot. Insoles may be of benefit but usually improvement is short lived. Surgery offers a lasting solution to the problem.

Many operations can be performed for bunions and hallux valgus. An essential part of assessment of foot disorders includes a clinical examination and x-rays. These will identify exactly what is the cause of the problem and allow an accurate plan for surgical correction.

In principle, surgery involves removing the bunion and reshaping the bones to provide a straight foot. A straight big toe will allow the foot to function more normally and reduce pain. The bones are fixed using strong metal screws and plaster of paris is therefore not required in most cases. A special post-operative shoe is worn for 6 weeks after surgery during which time weight is taken through the heel to allow walking.

To see more specific operative details click here
To see the post-operative program click here

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