What is Hallux Valgus?

12 Feb What is Hallux Valgus?

Hallux Valgus (thumb protrusion) is a Latin medical term describing the deformity of our big toe. “Hallux” means big toe. “Valgus” is an anatomical term that helps to explain that the deformity is in the direction away from our body. Our big toe, which should normally remain straight and parallel to the axis of the foot, changes direction and turns towards the second toe, in other words, towards the outside of the foot, in Hallux Valgus. In this case, a swelling occurs slightly above our big toe. This disease is popularly known as big toe protrusion or bunion. The literal meaning of “Bunion” is actually “turnip-radish”; The analogy attributed to this swelling in ancient times has continued until today.

In this disease, the metatarsal bone of the first toe bends inward and the big toe bone bends outward, forming a corner and the bone becomes protruding from the corner point. In reality, the condition is much more complex than a “simple bump” or “protrusion” that appears just above the big toe. It is a disease that can be treated by surgical and medical methods. The main principle of the treatment is to correct the pressure defect that is impaired due to the deformity of the thumb.

The disease is 4 to 7 times more common in women than in men. This disease usually starts very mildly at an early age and becomes more serious over time. When it exceeds a certain angle, it begins to cause symptoms that reduce the patient's quality of life, cause pain and make it difficult to wear shoes.