hallux valgus

Pathology

• bursitis at the medial head of the 1st metatarsal (bunion)

Clinical manifestations

• abnormal abduction (lateral deviation) of the great toe with respect to the 1st metatarsal which is itself deviated medially
• enlargement of the medial head of the 1st metatarsal may occur with formation of a bursa at the point of pressure.
  • inflammation of this bursa (bunion) is not uncommon.
• does NOT in itself cause pain or limit range of motion

Radiology

• X-ray of foot, weight-bearing films may be helpful

Management

• conservative management
  • trim hyperkeratotic area
    • debridement to evaluate for pressure injury or possible abscess if erythema
  • bunion shield/pad medial side
  • orthotics
• surgery for severe deformity or pain unresponsive to conservative management

More general terms

• joint disease; articular disease; arthropathy
• foot deformity

Additional terms

• bunion
• hallux limitus/rigidus
• hallux varus
• valgus deformity