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Bunion of the big toe, or hallux, is an unpleasant, and above all unaesthetic, condition that is usually caused primarily by incorrect (very tight) footwear, which is worn often and in which the foot gradually deforms. Besides incorrect footwear, the bony protrusion on the big toe can also be caused by other factors, which are mainly improper dietary habits, flat feet, rheumatism or genetic predisposition. The problem can be solved surgically; however there are several methods by which the bone can be realigned again, but it is a fairly long process.
Surgical solutions to problems with halluxes
The occurrence of hallux can primarily be treated surgically – depending on the acuity of the case the physician performs diagnostics, on the basis of which a method of treatment is subsequently proposed based on the specific symptoms. Usually this involves realigning the bone by removing part of it, removing tissue around the swelling at the big toe joint, fixing the big toe joint or realigning a longer bone of the foot that is connected to the big toe. Surgical intervention is usually a quick solution, and its recovery is also relatively short; however complications may occur during it, which prolong the entire treatment process. If possible, first try some of the non-invasive methods of realigning the hallux.
Non-surgical correction of hallux
The correction of a deviated big toe can also be carried out non-surgically; however this process is much longer. The following measures can be used to realign the deviation:
- get appropriate footwear
- equip your shoes with orthopedic insoles
- have taping applied
- apply a hallux corrector
- perform special exercises;
All of the listed methods of correcting halluxes primarily require a very responsible approach. Changing footwear or acquiring orthopedic insoles can help reduce the pain caused by a hallux. When choosing shoes, it is necessary to ensure that they do not put pressure on the big toe; heels should not be higher than 3 cm. Taping or using a corrector acts specifically against pressure on the joint and bone and gradually straightens the toe. Correctors are worn either daily or at a given regularity. For the correction of halluxes you can also perform special exercises, which also need to be carried out regularly and according to recommendations.
