Bunion
Hallux valgus
Definition: most common forefoot deformity causing a displacement of the 1st digit, commonly referred to as the hallux. The distal tip of the hallux deviates laterally and may overlap adjacenttoes, while the 1st MTP joint deviates medially, often forming a protrusion called the bunion. The bunion may be inflamed as a result external pressures from footwear.
Causes: poorly fitting footwear, family history, excessive pronation, arthritis, weak ligaments of the feet, trauma, of leg-length differences
Prevention: avoid high heels; wear wide fitting footwear
Treatment: ice on inflamed bunions; wide fitting footwear; toe separators between affected toes for comfort; custom footwear for severe deviations; surgical options
(Information abstracted from ART & SCIENCE OF FOOT CARE by Cindy Lazenby R.N. 2nd Edition 2017)