Hallux valgus, also known as crooked big toe, is a common foot problem that affects many people - especially middle-aged women, but younger people can also suffer. The condition involves angling the big toe inwards towards the other toes, while the toe joint is pushed outwards, forming a painful bump on the inside of the foot.
If you have problems with pain in your big toe, shoes that pinch, or a sore bump on the side of your foot, it could be hallux valgus. Find out more about the causes, symptoms and what you can do to relieve the problem.
What is hallux valgus?
Hallux valgus occurs when the front arch of the foot drops, causing the big toe to be angled towards the other toes. The pressure on the toe joint causes it to push out to the side, creating a bump on the inside of the foot. This bump can become red, swollen and painful, especially if you wear tight or hard shoes.
The condition develops slowly over time and often affects both feet.
Common symptoms of hallux valgus
- Pain and tenderness in the big toe joint
- A visible lump on the inside of the foot
- Red, irritated skin over the toe joint
- Pressure or rubbing against other toes
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
- Changes in the shape of the toes (hammer toe, overriding toe)
Causes of hallux valgus
Several factors can contribute to the development of hallux valgus:
- Heredity
- Flat feet or sunken arches
- Incorrect shoes - e.g. narrow or pointed
- Prolonged standing or strain
- Rheumatic joint diseases
What can be done about hallux valgus?
Preventing or alleviating hallux valgus is mainly about reducing pressure on the foot and big toe joint. Here are some tried and tested measures:
Wear wide, comfortable shoes
Choose shoes with a wide toe box, stable sole and good shock absorption. Avoid high heels and narrow shoes that squeeze your toes.
Insoles and anterior padding
Orthopaedic inserts with an anterior pad help lift the forefoot and reduce stress on the toes. It can also prevent secondary problems such as hammertoes.
Toe spreaders and protectors
Silicone toe spreaders keep the big toe in the right position and reduce pressure and friction. Self-adhesive foam rings can relieve painful calluses.
Foot care and self-care
Take regular foot baths, file away calluses and lubricate your feet with moisturising cream. This will reduce the risk of ulcers and irritation from hallux valgus.
Contact a specialist
If the problem is severe, a podiatrist or orthotist can help with customised insoles or shoes.
When should you seek medical attention?
If you have persistent pain, difficulty walking or if your big toe becomes increasingly crooked, contact a medical centre. There are treatments that can improve quality of life, including surgery in more severe cases.
How to relieve hallux valgus
Hallux valgus can be painful and affect your everyday life - but there is a lot you can do yourself. Choosing the right footwear, using foot orthoses and trying aids such as toe spreaders can help relieve symptoms and reduce pressure on the big toe.
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