Hallux Valgus Is a Problem for Many Feet

Have you heard of hallux valgus? It sounds complicated, or even frightening, but it's just the medical term for a bunion, a common bone deformity that can affect men and women of any age. It's easy to understand once you know that hallux is the word or your big toe and valgus means "bent" or "twisted" in Latin. Put together, these words describe exactly what a bunion is: a big toe that is bent or twisted toward the other toes, causing a bony protrusion at the big toe joint on the inner edge of the foot.

Some doctors believe that bunions are caused by genetics; others feel that, because women are more prone to bunions than men are, the culprit is years of wearing pointy shoes that crowd the toes. Arthritis is not a direct cause of bunions, but the joint inflammation that it causes can exacerbate them, causing increased pain.

If you think that you may have developed a bunion, the first thing to do is to schedule a visit with a foot doctor. With years of specialized training and experience, a podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to treat any illnesses or issues related to the health and well-being of your feet. Your podiatrist will be able to tell you whether your problem is, in fact, a bunion, and to help you with a wide range of treatment options if so.

Non-surgical options such as custom orthotics and medications to relieve pain and inflammation will probably be the first approaches. If they are not effective, surgery to change the shape of your foot may be necessary. This is a relatively simple and common procedure.

Are you worried about hallux valgus?

Contact Podiatry Group of Annapolis and let us help with all your foot and ankle needs. Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver are experienced and dedicated podiatrists who provide high-quality individualized care. Call us today at 410-224-4448 or visit us online to make an appointment at our conveniently located Annapolis office.