Foot deformity (see photo below) is a pathology characterized by damage to the joints at the base of the big toe, near which a so-called growth forms. This defect can spread to other fingers. If the foot is deformed, the patient may experience aching pain in the legs, which is accompanied by rapid fatigue. As a rule, older women suffer from this defect.
The main factors leading to the appearance of this pathology include:
Degrees of foot deformation
As a rule, this pathology is visible to the naked eye, but to make a more accurate diagnosis, an X-ray or computed tomography examination of the foot is prescribed. With their help, the exact degree of deformation is determined, on which the method of surgical intervention depends.
Treatment of foot deformities
At the initial signs of this disease, you can get rid of it with the help of special orthopedic devices, which include: arch supports, insoles, toe correctors, interdigital silicone rollers, ties, etc. Also, to reduce pain, it is possible to prescribe various physiotherapeutic procedures, massage and warm baths. It is also very useful to perform special exercises (walking on your heels, on your toes, clown walk, etc.). It is advisable to do them every day.
The main treatment method for this pathology is surgical intervention, prescribed on an individual basis. The choice of method by which the defect will be corrected largely depends on its degree. For example, at the first stage of the disease, a lump on the finger is removed and the capsular-ligamentous apparatus is restored. In this case, the defect is corrected by transferring the tendons of the muscle that holds the thumb to another place. In the second degree of foot damage, the bone is dissected and further fixed with a screw. At the last stage, a complex osteotomy is performed with bone fixation with two screws.
Hallux valgus is a process of changing the shape of the foot, which is accompanied by the appearance of an unaesthetic, painful outgrowth, a bone at the base of the big toe.
Plano valgus deformity of the feet is a specific pathology of the functional position of the foot, resulting from the fact that its height is significantly underestimated and the central axis is bent.
The toes and heel, respectively, turn outward, and the foot itself gradually acquires an x-shaped outline. This pathology can be acquired or congenital; it is extremely problematic to treat, but, in general, correction of the disease - conservative or surgical operation - is carried out quite successfully by orthopedists.
Flat valgus foot deformity in adults can occur due to the following factors:
The difference in degrees of hallux valgus depends on the angle that changes between the first toe and the bone (connective, metatarsal).
In the first degree, there is an increase in joint deformation in the intermetatarsal angle (the sesamoid ligaments are too mobile), and subluxation of the foot occurs.
With the second degree of hallux valgus, further displacement of the tendons and joints on the big toe occurs.
Deformation of the 3rd degree (regardless of the factor that turned out to be the main one) occurs due to the fact that the bone and connective tissues in this area are vulnerable and quite weak, they do not cope well with a significant functional load.
Signs of flat valgus foot deformity are as follows:
To correctly select treatment for valgus, carry out disease prevention (physical exercise, gymnastics, massage), as well as prevent its further development, a timely and thorough examination of the patient is required.
To identify hallux valgus, the doctor takes an x-ray of the foot in 3 projections - this way you can identify which of the 3 degrees of development of hallux valgus the patient has, and also clarify whether he has additional concomitant pathologies, such as avascular necrosis, cyst, arthritis , inflammatory pathology of the periosteum, etc.
If appropriate symptoms are identified (photo), the doctor applies treatment (orthopedic insoles, corrective exercises, gymnastics, massage), which helps, if not cure valgus, then at least correct its manifestations.
It is almost impossible to completely cure plano valgus deformity of the 3rd degree, but it is possible to do without surgery. There are several standard treatment methods aimed at correcting this pathology.
Installation of special orthopedic insoles designed to correct flat valgus foot deformity.
Such insoles demonstrate high rates of effectiveness in the early stages of the development of the disease; in addition to them, the orthopedic doctor should prescribe the installation of special insoles aimed at correcting the position of the foot.
In addition to the above methods, installation of finger correctors and additional ties is indicated. The best option is medical shoes of orthopedic properties, in which individually selected insoles are installed.
For hallux valgus, a special foot massage is indicated. For this purpose, you should turn to professionals. Often, to correct the pathology, the orthopedic doctor prescribes a massage course consisting of ten sessions, which should be repeated at least once every few months.
Properly selected physical exercises can significantly correct foot valgus. The most common gymnastics options:
For gymnastics to treat valgus, exercises using a massage mat are suitable.
A set of physiotherapeutic measures is suitable not for treatment, but for minimizing the symptoms of the disease. For hallux valgus, it is good to supplement treatment with massage, orthopedic insoles and gymnastic exercises.
If adults experience pain when walking that prevents them from moving, the orthopedist prescribes painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.
The operation is indicated in a situation where the pathology is clearly progressive or a deformed toe prevents the patient from living comfortably, and also when conservative methods - insoles in shoes, corrective massage and special exercises have not led to correction of the varus position of the foot (video).
Modern medical orthopedic equipment involves such a type of treatment as low-traumatic joint correction - this is an operation after which the patient is not given a plaster cast and no additional metal structures are installed.
During the operation, the surgeon corrects the angle that is between the bones of the foot. This operation is necessary to ensure that the pulling function of the ligaments is correctly distributed. The recovery period after such an operation passes quite quickly, there are practically no relapses.
Varus alignment of the feet (photo) in adults, which appears as a result of grade 3 hallux valgus, can be corrected at home (without surgery). The most effective technologies:
A decoction of madder is recommended - the product removes excess uric acid; a teaspoon of powder should be poured into a full glass of water, which should be preheated; then the mixture should be boiled in a steam bath for about 10 minutes; Strain the resulting product thoroughly, take 12 glasses several times a day. Sometimes the remedy even helps to avoid surgery.
Dandelion flowers are good for correcting growths and combating varus feet. After they are well dried, they should be filled with a small amount of iodine. The product is infused for 3 days, after which it is applied in the form of a mesh to the valgus of the foot.
Varus alignment of the feet and hallux valgus are well corrected with the help of a special medicinal ointment prepared at home. A large spoon of mustard powder will require the same amount of bodyagi, several spoons of turpentine and a few drops of machine oil. Treatment of hallux valgus with such an ointment (photo) will be very effective and efficient, and will help you do without surgery.
Therapeutic compresses prepared using natural propolis are also well suited for the treatment of varus feet and grade 3 valgus. Place a small piece of the product on the bone overnight, carefully securing it with a bandage.
Any of the above methods for treating grade 3 hallux valgus and varus position of the foot will be effective, but it is better to use an integrated approach, combining home recipes with proper physical exercises, corrective shoes with orthopedic insoles, and massage therapy will be complemented.
You should always take preventive measures (physical exercises and therapeutic exercises, orthopedic insoles, massage) to avoid the occurrence and development of hallux valgus.
Hallux valgus
The anatomically correct position of the leg corresponds to a conventionally drawn line between the big toe, the middle of the knee and the hip joint.
Any deviation from the norm can be considered a deformation condition. Hallux valgus is a curvature of the metatarsophalangeal joint, that is, deviation of the first toe. Popularly, this is called a growth, lump or bone, a formation at the base of the thumb.
The bony skeleton of the foot is a complex structure consisting of small bones and articular cartilage. The big toe bears a significant load in this skeletal system. The supporting function of the first finger and the constant static load make it vulnerable and easily deformed. There are several reasons contributing to the development of orthopedic deviation:
Hallux valgus, caused by wearing tight shoes
In addition to the above reasons for inflammation of the joints of the foot, a person’s genetic predisposition also plays an important role. In 70% of the total number of diseases, it is this hereditary factor that plays a dominant role. In addition, hallux valgus may occur in women during menopause or pregnancy. This is due to hormonal and physiological changes occurring in the female body.
The main indicator of orthopedic pathology is the appearance of a bone (bump) at the base of the thumb. In addition, a person experiences constant pain while wearing shoes, which is caused by rapid fatigue of the legs, redness of the affected area, and swelling of the foot. Therefore, with minor manifestations, a special orthopedic insole for hallux valgus deformity will have a therapeutic and preventive effect and alleviate human suffering.
There is a special table that determines the severity of the deformation condition of the foot:
orthopedic foot disease
In grades III and IV, hallux valgus deformity can develop the following complications:
In the latter case, the big toe covers the neighboring one, causing discomfort and pain when walking. In an advanced state, pathological processes can develop very rapidly, which further complicates life. Often, valnus feformation contributes to the development of chronic bursitis, in which inflammation of the periarticular bursa occurs, as well as Deichlander's disease, in which structural changes in the metatarsal bone occur.
Foot deformity in a child can only be determined by the first year of life. The main symptomatic sign of the development of hallux valgus is that when walking, the child does not step on the entire foot, but on its inner part, and the baby quickly gets tired. This should be of concern to parents and requires immediate consultation with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon. Hallux valgus in children (see photos) can develop in stages and have varying degrees of severity, from mild to severe foot deformity. The reason for such a deviation from the normal position of the foot can be congenital, in which the deformation of the foot occurs in the mother’s womb, or acquired. The second type of valgus is associated with imperfection or improper development of the musculoskeletal system, one of the reasons for which may be muscle hypotonia. In such cases, orthopedic shoes for children with hallux valgus deformity become the only therapeutic and preventive way to change the situation. It should be noted that the corrective effect of orthopedic shoes will be much higher if parents take appropriate measures at a very early age of the baby. Footwear for hallux valgus for children is manufactured at specialized prosthetic and orthopedic factories, which are located in all regional centers of the country. The only condition is the conclusion of a medical examination to receive FREE shoes for the child.
orthopedic shoes for hallux valgus
Lat. hallux valgus or hallux valgus deformity of the foot, the treatment of which in grades I and II does not require any radical measures. At the initial stage of the disease, orthopedists recommend a certain set of preventive measures aimed at reducing static load and reducing swelling. First of all, these are orthopedic insoles for hallux valgus, a special set of therapeutic and preventive gymnastic exercises and a balanced diet.
In the orthopedic pathology under consideration, diagnosis is established using clinical indications and interpretation of instrumental examination. Plantographic and x-ray examination determines the degree of deformation and inflammation of the periosteum. Depending on the severity of the pathology and pain, appropriate treatment is selected. It is obvious that joint deformation is best treated in the initial stages of the disease. The normal deviation of the first toe in relation to the first metatarsal bone is considered to be an angle of 10?, and the fifth toe - 5?. Treatment of spot deformity can be conservative and surgical. Orthopedic shoes for hallux valgus are one of the most common methods of conservative treatment. Therapeutic massage, warm baths and physiotherapeutic procedures will help reduce pain and relieve inflammatory processes in the tissues of the metatarsal bone. Modern methods of surgical treatment include about 140 types of correction of the outward deviation of the first finger. It all depends on the characteristics of the physiological structure of a person. The most common form of radical treatment for mild deviation of the first toe with the appearance of exostosis (growth on the bone) on the inner edge of the head of the metatarsal bone is the Shede operation. Although foot pathology is not eliminated with such surgical intervention, patients feel noticeable relief. Indications for this type of surgical intervention are very limited, since after removal of the head of the metatarsal bone, the person completely loses pressure on the big toe. In this case, orthopedic shoes for hallux valgus with special instep supports are the only correct solution that helps a person move comfortably.
treatment of hallux valgus
Advantages of surgical treatment over the conservative method:
Surgical procedures are performed under local anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
The well-known truth that it is easier to prevent any disease than to treat it very clearly fits this orthopedic pathology. Therapeutic massage and gymnastic exercises at home, together with traditional folk medicine, will have a beneficial effect on the joints of the toes.
Before starting treatment procedures at home, it is recommended to prepare a decoction of chamomile, burdock root and St. John's wort. All ingredients are taken at the rate of 100 g of raw materials per liter of warm water. For greater effect, add a teaspoon of baking soda to the healing mixture. These baths should be taken 0.5 hours before treatment procedures. After taking a healing bath, you should thoroughly massage your feet in the area of the metatarsal bone for 20 minutes. For better blood supply and a warming effect, you can add medicinal ointment based on propolis or arnica to massage treatments. This preventive foot massage should be performed daily before bed. After completing treatment and preventive measures, to enhance the warming effect, it is necessary to apply a compress. A piece of propolis is softened in the palms and applied to the inflamed area. You can secure such a compress with a bandage or gauze, putting a cotton sock on top. The very next morning, the person will feel a noticeable improvement.
Massage and therapeutic exercises
We should not forget about special therapeutic simulators for the prevention of hallux valgus. Before purchasing such a roller trainer, you should make sure of its reliability and quality. Therefore, you should buy this type of equipment in specialized stores that have the appropriate product quality certificate. It is very important that during gymnastic exercises to prevent hallux valgus, all muscle structures of the legs take part in the work. Particular attention should be paid to the ankle joint. For more qualified consultation on physical therapy, you should contact the physical office of a local medical institution, where a physical therapy doctor will advise you on the necessary set of physical exercises.
There are a large number of folk methods of influencing the “toe bone”. All of them are time-tested and are an effective way to treat hallux valgus. Here are some recipes for traditional treatment at home:
To normalize metabolic processes in the human body and remove excess uric acid, madder is one of the most popular herbaceous plants in the treatment of gout and orthopedic deformities of the legs:
These two components of a home first aid kit will perfectly cope with harmful growths on the toe:
Fifteen-minute baths prepared with iodine and salt will help alleviate the patient’s suffering:
You can lubricate the growing bones before going to bed with a “pharmacy cocktail” made from iodine and acetylsalicylic acid tablets:
It must be remembered that iodine is a pharmaceutical medicinal product that has a number of contraindications and side effects. Therefore, when using iodine in home treatment, these features should be taken into account.
Since ancient times, red clay has been used as a remedy to relieve inflammation and irritation of the skin. For hallux valgus, the following combination can be used:
Important! This traditional medicine recipe is not suitable for people with chronic endocrine and skin diseases.
In Siberia and the Far North, fir oil and fresh fish are considered an effective way to treat bunions on the big toe. An important point in treatment is the alternation of both components. The first week, every day in the evening, a fillet of fish is applied throughout the night. The second week is devoted to treatment with fir oil. Before going to bed, rub the sore spot and wrap it with a warm cloth. The course of effective treatment is one month.
In order not to provoke orthopedic pathology, you need to follow a few simple recommendations that will help avoid unpleasant sensations in the foot. Firstly, high-quality and properly selected shoes will be much more comfortable to wear than narrow ones made from poor-quality material. Secondly, you need to periodically rest your legs. In the summer, it is very useful to walk barefoot on grass, sand, river or sea pebbles. Thirdly, eat a balanced diet. It is necessary that the body is sufficiently saturated with mineral and vitamin foods. By following all these recommendations, you can avoid many problems associated with foot deformities.
An exciting period for his parents begins with the child's first step. The first years of life, with the first hesitant steps, jumps and journeys along the path, which become faster and more confident every day. It is at this time that parents should be especially attentive to the health of their baby’s feet, so that his future path is not overshadowed by such a problem as foot deformity. Unfortunately, foot deformities in children are becoming more common today, with the most common problems being flat feet, accompanying valgus deformities of the feet and clubfoot, leading to varus feet and O-shaped curvature of the legs. This article will focus on hallux valgus. We will tell you about the causes of its occurrence, risk factors, symptoms and diagnostic methods. In addition, we will talk about how to deal with this problem and how you can avoid it.
From a medical point of view, hallux valgus is a curvature of the axes of a child’s legs in which his knees move closer to each other, forming the letter “X,” and the heels and toes, on the contrary, “look” outward, so the middle part of the foot “falls” inward . In fact, hallux valgus and flat feet are inextricably linked, since hallux valgus is often accompanied by a decrease in the height of the arch of the feet. Correctly, such a deformity is called plano-valgus.
Deformation of the toes can be congenital, when the baby’s legs are positioned incorrectly even during pregnancy; such a defect is noticeable immediately after the birth of the baby or during the first month of his life, and acquired due to the fact that the tendon and ligamentous apparatus of the child are imperfect and cannot cope with the load on them. A child develops hallux valgus due to the following reasons:
As you already understand, foot deformation in a child is a very serious problem, so parents should look at their baby as closely as possible so as not to miss the alarming symptoms of the development of hallux valgus. The most important and first sign indicating a foot deformity is that when walking, the child steps on the inner edge of the foot, and not on its full surface. Gradually, the legs take on an X shape, and the gait becomes uncertain, shuffling, the child quickly gets tired of walking and complains of pain in the legs and spine. If hallux valgus is not treated in time, flat feet, scoliosis, arthrosis, and deformation of the pelvis, knees, and ankle joints will develop. As soon as you notice one of the alarming signs, it is necessary to urgently diagnose and begin treatment; only timely measures can stop the deviations and restore your child’s health!
Toe valgus varies depending on how many degrees the axis of the foot is deviated from the normal position. There are 4 degrees of severity of deformation:
When a child is diagnosed with hallux valgus, surgery means removing part of the bone that is preventing the foot from positioning correctly, so it is important to prevent this from happening. Therefore, treatment for toe deformities should begin immediately.
Initially, it is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis. For this, the following methods are used - X-ray of the feet, computer plantography and podometry, as a result of which it is possible to detect in several projections a change in the position of the feet and improper distribution of the load in their parts. Based on research and examination data, a final diagnosis is made and comprehensive treatment of hallux valgus deformity begins. The main goal of all activities is to restore the correct shape of the foot, strengthening the muscles and ligaments of the legs.
If the baby has a congenital deformation of the feet, it will be necessary to fix the limbs with plaster based on the recommendations of the orthopedist. If the deformity is acquired, then treatment includes:
All these measures taken together, carried out regularly (about once every 3 months) until the age of 7-8, can help stop the deformation and promote the normal development of the child’s legs.
As soon as your child begins to walk, you need to pay attention to how he does it. Particular attention should be paid to the installation of the knee joints of the baby’s legs, legs and feet (are there any curvatures, gait abnormalities, etc.). The fact is that such problems in the near future can lead to serious consequences and various diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Therefore, they need to be identified as early as possible.
If in a newborn the diagnosis of leg curvature is difficult due to the fact that the child does not yet walk, then in a one-year-old baby it is not at all difficult to see the problem if you closely monitor the child’s steps.
One of the most common types of curvature of the lower extremities is valgus deformity of the foot in children. This is the problem that will be discussed in this article.
Hallux valgus is a curvature of the feet in which, when the straightened legs are tightly compressed at the knees, the distance between the inner edges of the ankles will be 4-5 cm or more. Also, with valgus, the heel and toes deviate outward, and the arches of the foot “collapse” inward. Such legs are usually called X-shaped, in contrast to O-shaped, which are formed with a varus type of deformity. If at the same time there is a decrease in the normal height of the arches of the feet, then we are talking about plano-valgus deformity. It is the latter form of pathology that is most often found in children.
The photo clearly shows how the feet are deformed when a child’s feet are placed in valgus
At the initial stages of the formation of hallux valgus, no particularly pronounced curvatures are noticeable, but over time, the pathology of the musculoskeletal system rapidly progresses and then the diagnosis can be made based on a simple examination of the child.
To identify the problem as early as possible, look out for the following possible signs of hallux valgus in your child:
As a rule, the diagnosis of hallux valgus in a child can be made by the parents themselves at home based on the symptoms given above, but in any case you need to visit your treating pediatrician or pediatric orthopedist. The specialist will prescribe a number of additional procedures and tests to clarify the diagnosis, determine the cause of the curvature and, based on the data obtained, prescribe a set of treatment and rehabilitation measures.
Valgus feet in a child, depending on the cause, can be congenital or acquired.
Congenital etiology is caused by various malformations of elements of the musculoskeletal system, genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. In this case, the pathology develops during the period of intrauterine development and manifests itself immediately after birth, and the degree of curvature in the case of congenital hallux valgus is very pronounced.
Edwards syndrome is a chromosomal abnormality that causes severe valgus deformation of the newborn's foot - rocker foot.
The acquired form of pathology develops after the birth of the child and can have many causes, including:
Depending on the magnitude of the deviation of the axis of the valgus foot from the norm, there are 4 degrees of severity of the pathology:
The angle of curvature of the foot determines the degree of valgus deformity
As already mentioned, parents or a pediatrician themselves can suspect a valgus position of the foot, but the final diagnosis should only be made by a pediatric orthopedist.
Unfortunately, a visual examination alone is not enough to make a diagnosis and draw up a treatment plan for hallux valgus deformity. The specialist will prescribe a number of necessary studies:
Important! To exclude diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system as the cause of hallux valgus, all children with such a problem must be examined by a neurologist.
Based on the data received, the specialist will make a correct and final diagnosis, draw up an individual treatment plan for the child, and explain to parents what and how to do in order to achieve a good result and get rid of the problem.
How to treat this disease depends entirely on its cause and extent. If an acquired deformity of 1-3 degrees of severity can be corrected with a set of conservative treatment methods, then getting rid of 4 degrees of curvature or congenital valgus of the foot can only be done through surgery.
The main components of the treatment program for hallux valgus:
Foot massage with such a mat is not only useful, but also fun
The goal of treating children with valgus feet is to restore the normal shape and function of the foot, strengthening its ligamentous and muscular apparatus. This can be quickly achieved by taking an integrated approach to therapy.
In the case of congenital pathology, a small patient may be prescribed long-term immobilization of the foot in the correct position using plaster casts or correction of the deformity through surgery.
In other cases, treatment begins with an individual selection of orthopedic shoes or insoles, a set of therapeutic exercises, massage, and physiotherapy.
Group exercises under the supervision of an instructor with exercise therapy, as well as home exercises and walking on massage mats have a very good effect.
A set of simple but effective exercises for the treatment of hallux valgus
If the pathology is not recognized in time and its treatment is not started, the child may experience the following complications:
It is simple to prevent the formation of foot valgus, if the deformity is not caused by congenital causes.
To do this, you need to follow these rules and recommendations:
Parents should be responsible when choosing their child's first shoes.
My son’s foot valgus was discovered during his annual preventive examination in 2nd grade. Until now, I somehow did not pay attention to the child’s feet and did not know about such a disease. The orthopedic doctor at the children's clinic prescribed us calcium supplements, 3 courses of therapeutic massage, electrophoresis, and daily exercises for the feet. Hope this helps get rid of the problem.
My wife noticed curvature of her daughter’s legs when she was 1 year old, right after she started walking. The doctor diagnosed us with hallux valgus. Treatment consisted of wearing special orthopedic children's shoes, therapeutic massage and gymnastics on a special mat. Six months have passed since the treatment and the results are very encouraging. The legs became even and even.
I had hallux valgus when I was a child. I constantly trampled my shoes on the inside of the sole, but my parents did not pay much attention to this until I began to have terrible pain in my feet and legs, and even had leg cramps. The doctor made the diagnosis immediately at the first examination. I didn’t want to wear orthopedic shoes - they looked ugly, so an alternative option for correcting foot alignment was proposed - custom-made orthopedic insoles. Treatment also included a long course of exercises in a clinic under the supervision of a physiotherapist, massage and home exercises. Six months later, the pain in my legs subsided, I stopped doing gymnastics, but continued to wear insoles. The degree of curvature has decreased (this is noticeable in the shoes I wear), but the deformation has not completely disappeared.
Hallux Valgus is one of the most common orthopedic diseases. Not a single person is immune from the onset of the disease. However, according to statistics, women are more susceptible to the disease. The risk of developing bunions increases with age. Hallux valgus is diagnosed in 3% of young people. More than 30% of elderly people are familiar with the curvature of the bone of the first toe.
The disease is based on a serious deviation in the structure of the foot. The development of the disease is very slow. The initial stages of the disease are difficult to identify. That is why pathology is diagnosed after complications begin to develop. Her therapy must be timely. At the initial stages, massage, gymnastics, and correction products (fixators, splints) help correct the situation.
Conservative methods of therapy are effective, but only in the initial stages. If there is severe protrusion of the bone, intense pain, as well as the ineffectiveness of conservative methods, special exercises and wearing pads will not help. An operation (open, minimally invasive or percutaneous) is prescribed. The cost of surgery, as well as the duration of the recovery period, vary depending on the type of surgery.
It is important to understand that hallux valgus is not only a cosmetic defect, it is a serious disease that requires immediate treatment. Only an orthopedist can treat the disease and prescribe the use of medications, fixatives and other means. Asking for advice on forums or blindly trusting reviews of a particular remedy for bunions is, at the very least, unwise.
The disease brings a lot of inconvenience to a person’s life. Because of the crooked toe, it is difficult to choose shoes; the growth has a rather unaesthetic appearance, and, moreover, when rubbed, it is often accompanied by bleeding. Bursitis often develops against the background of this disease. Along with the progression of the disease, discomfort and intense pain in the lower extremities and curvature of the remaining fingers are noted. Any movement is accompanied by unbearable pain.
Due to impaired gait, pain appears in the lower leg. The ligaments, bones and joints of the foot are closely connected. Therefore, any deformation of one part is accompanied by other changes in the other. Deviation of the thumb is visible to the naked eye. But little is known about the hidden changes that can be seen on X-rays. In the photographs you can see the angle of deviation of the first metatarsal bone inward, displaced sesamoid bones. The curvature of the bone entails a violation of the arch of the foot. There is a change in shape and a violation of the shock-absorbing function.
The development of hallux valgus is usually provoked by:
Metatarsal deviation is a fairly common condition that can develop in both children and adults. The symptoms of the disease depend on the degree.
Hallux valgus (ICD-10 code - M20.1), regardless of the cause (transverse flatfoot, articular pathologies, wearing uncomfortable shoes, bursitis), is accompanied by the following manifestations:
Bunions on the feet are a real problem, since it is painful for a person with the progression of the disease not only to walk, but also to simply stand. Moreover, discomfort and unpleasant symptoms appear at rest. There are several degrees of hallux valgus.
The first degree of progression of the pathology is accompanied by a displacement of the bone by 20 degrees. At this stage, there are no complaints of discomfort or pain.
The second degree is accompanied by a deviation of the bone by 30 degrees. The appearance of mild painful sensations is noted. As for the third degree, at this stage the joint deviates by 40-50 degrees and is characterized by intense pain.
As for the fourth degree, it is accompanied by a deviation of the finger by 50 degrees or more. Pain occurs not only when moving, but also when lying down or sitting. It is difficult for a person to choose shoes.
In addition, the formation of calluses is noted. In order to establish an accurate diagnosis, the doctor will study the medical history, conduct an examination and prescribe the necessary studies. During the examination, it is mandatory to evaluate a person’s gait, the position of the first toe and the range of its movements.
In addition, the following is scheduled:
After the examination, the doctor will select therapy. With initial symptoms of the disease, therapy at home is possible. The use of orthopedic insoles, gymnastics and massage are prescribed.
Equally important is avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes. Both men and women with protruding bunions need to wear high-quality, comfortable shoes, leather with thick soles. Stage 1 hallux valgus is cured quickly. The main thing is to follow all the specialist’s recommendations.
Comprehensive conservative treatment helps improve blood circulation, strengthen muscles and ligaments, and also help minimize discomfort, pain and fatigue. Treatment of the disease begins with the selection of comfortable shoes. Properly chosen shoes will not cause stress, pain and friction while walking, and will also help prevent further progression of the pathology.
To minimize pressure, special clamps are used. For the treatment of hallux valgus, the use of drugs with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects is prescribed: Kenalog, Diprospan, Hydrocortisone. Physical therapy helps minimize inflammation and pain. The use of ultrasound and diathermy, ozokerite-paraffin applications, and phonophoresis is often prescribed.
Massage for hallux valgus helps relieve pain and normalize blood circulation. Often a massage course is carried out - 10 sessions. The course is recommended to be carried out once every two months. Treatment of hallux valgus deformity involves the use of gymnastics, which contributes to a significant correction of the curvature of the bone. It is helpful to walk on tiptoes, walk on the outside of your feet, walk on uneven surfaces, and pick up small objects from the floor with your fingers.
Various orthopedic products are widely used to treat bone curvature. Overlays, rubber cuffs with special rollers that help protect the middle metatarsal bones from pressure, interdigital spacers to prevent ingrown nails - all this is very effective for this pathology. In case of critical curvature of the foot, orthopedic shoes are made with arch support, which helps relieve the load on the foot.
It is important to understand that inappropriate treatment of the pathology, as well as its absence, is fraught with the development of deforming arthrosis of the joints, as well as restructuring of the structure of the metatarsal bones. If the nature of the disease is clearly progressive, as well as the ineffectiveness of conservative methods - the use of physiotherapeutic procedures, wearing special shoes and the use of braces, the use of massage and gymnastics, surgical intervention is prescribed.
Thanks to modern medical orthopedic equipment, today it is possible to correct the joint in a low-traumatic manner. An operation is performed, after which there is no need to apply plaster or install additional structures. During surgery, the angle located between the bones of the foot is corrected. Surgical treatment of hallux valgus is one of the most effective treatments.
To ensure that the recovery period is successful and complications do not develop, patients are recommended to:
Any operation carries a risk of complications. Surgery for such an ailment as hallux valgus is fraught with: penetration of infection into soft tissues, the occurrence of osteomyelitis or arthritis, slow fusion of bone tissue, numbness of the dermis. Prevention of the disease consists, first of all, in wearing the correct, moderately loose shoes, with a heel not exceeding 5 cm.
High heels not only provoke the development of flat feet, but also the formation of bunions, as well as an increase in the load on the spinal column, thigh muscles, lower legs and Achilles tendons. In order to prevent the development of the disease, the use of orthopedic insoles is recommended. It is important to undergo regular examinations by an orthopedist and maintain a work-rest schedule (if work involves being on your feet).