What is Hallux Valgus?
It is known that the human foot will be deformed for many reasons. Hallux valgus disease is the most common foot deformity. This deformity is defined as the lateral deviation of the big toe (hallux). Although the big toe deviates mainly to one side, in the later stages of the anterior plane the big toe and the tip of the nail also rotate to the side. As the joint deforms, inflammation gradually develops and the resulting inflammation causes the foot to swell towards the shoe. This swelling can be very painful because it contains inflammation. Also, the tip of the big toe can slide to one side and stick out from the other. This causes pain in other joints. Genetic slightly scalloped feet do not indicate hallux valgus disease.
People with scalloped feet usually choose wider shoes to avoid hallux valgus disease for the rest of their lives. Hallux valgus treatment is not recommended for patients who are only bothered by the shape of the condition. There is no specific age range in which hallux valgus disease occurs. Therefore, it can be seen in people of all ages.
What are Hallux Valgus Symptoms?
Athletes' feet, sprains, etc. Since hallux valgus has very distinctive symptoms, not all swelling or inflammation is defined as hallux valgus, as there may be many diseases. It does not affect the entire foot like a fungus or any other disease, so it cannot be said to be a symptom unless there is a disorder in the big toe. The most important symptom is redness and enlargement in this joint, namely swelling. Over time, the flexibility of the thumb decreases and the patient begins to move more restricted.
The big toe begins to move significantly sideways. It is common for these fingers to develop calluses and redness as the other fingers are pinched from the deviation. Lateral joint displacement causes inflammation and swelling. The inflammation increases over time and causes pain. This means that the structure of the foot is fundamentally changed, causing constant foot pain in shoes.
What are Hallux Vallgus Treatment Methods?
Many methods are used to treat the disease. The determining factor for this method of treatment is, of course, the extent of the disease. Treatment methods may vary according to the stages of hallux valgus. The treatment method to be used is determined by the orthopedic surgeon. Night splint can be used as a treatment method at the beginning of the disease. This treatment uses a brace to help maintain the shape of the big toe. This splint helps the big toe stand and move as it should. It helps to keep the joints healthy.
The doctor may also recommend shoes for hallux valgus to prevent progression of the disease. These shoes prevent further inflammation and deformation of the joint by preventing friction between the foot and the shoe. This makes the pain of the disease less noticeable. In advanced cases, hallux valgus surgery may be necessary. There are more than 100 known surgical treatments for the disease.