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 Hallux Valgus or Bunion indicates a foot condition where the Hallux or big toe is excessively rotated inward with the Metatarsophalangeal joint not properly aligned. More specifically, the first metatarsal bone and the proximal phalanx of the big toe are not aligned creating a certain angle that determines the grade of inward direction of the big toe.
The best assessment for Hallux Valgus, or so-called Bunion, is that one aims not only to identify the grade of Hallux Valgus but also to identify its underlying biomechanics causes.
Very often the Hallux Valgus is linked with other postural conditions such as flat foot, high Arch, Valgus Knee, foot overpronation, and ankle instability.
These conditions can increase the physiological load on the Metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe. For this reason, these postural conditions can be the underlying cause of Hallux Valgus. For this reason, It is fundamental to assess these conditions that are the underlying causes of Hallux Valgus.
To avoid the degenerative progression of Hallux Valgus we have to treat at the same time these conditions which increase the biomechanical load or cause joint misalignment.
To assess body postural issues and Hallux valgus properly is advisable to get a good 3D Foot Pressures Scan or Gait Analysis.
In the image above you can see a 3D foot Pressures Scan report where are evidenced the peack of forces acting on the forefoot and more specifically on the first and second Metatarsal bones.
The gold standard to diagnose the Hallux Valgus is an X-ray.
To assess the condition of soft tissue such as tendons, muscles, and ligaments the best medical diagnostic are:
With these medical diagnostics, you will be able to understand the condition of tendons, muscles, bursae, and ligaments.
Inflammatory fluid alongside tendons, ligaments, and joints can be identified as well.
The best physiotherapy protocol to manage Hallux Valgus is one that integrates an holistic approach to treat both causes and symptoms, such as:
Hands-on physiotherapy is very important to help reduce pain and swelling, adhesions, and improve the range of motion of the Metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe.
The best physio exercises to manage the Hallux Valgus are that can strengthen weak foot muscles or reduce the Metatarsophalangeal joint misalignment.
The physiotherapy exercises for Hallux Valgus should aim to improve the range of motion of the big toe joint and reduce the flat foot that is very often linked with it.
High-Power Laser Therapy is very effective in reducing Hallux pain and inflammation in just one 30-minute session.
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Shockwave therapy can be very helpful in reducing pain, tendon calcifications, and inflammation.
As mentioned above the best exercises to manage the Hallux Valgus are that ones can strengthen weak foot muscles, reduce the Metatarsophalangeal joint misalignment, and improve foot and Hallux mobility and flexibility
Please follow the exercises below three times a week as a routine to manage your Hallux Valgus pain and condition.
Exercise N° 1
Place a rubber band around your toes and spread them apart as much as
possible. Hold the position for 10 seconds, then relax.
Repeat for 10-15 reps.
Exercise N° 2
Sit down and place your foot flat on the floor. Press the big toe down into the
floor while trying to lift the other toes off the ground. Hold for 5-10 seconds,
then release.
Repeat for 10 times.
Exercise N° 3
Walk for 5 meters on your heels in small steps lifting your forefoot and doing
plantar flexion of the toes.
Repeat for 10 times.
Exercise N° 4
Walk for 5 meters on the outer edge of the feet while doing plantar flexion of
the toes.
Repeat for 10 times.
Exercise N° 5
Walk for 5 meters with small steps holding a handkerchief doing a plantar
flexion of the toes.
Repeat for 10 times.
Exercise N° 6
Sit on a chair, trunk upright, hands on the hips, feet on the ground. Alternately
grasp and lift a handkerchief from the ground, doing a plantar flexion of the
toes.
Repeat 10 times for both feet.
Exercise N° 7
Sit on a chair. Roll a tennis ball under the sole of each foot by applying
downward pressure and doing a plantar flexion of the toes.
Do the exercise for 5 minutes.
Calf and foot stretching exercises are advised before and after this series of exercises or any other kind of exercise or sport.
Bear in mind that if your symptoms and pain persist for more than two weeks ask the help of your trusted physiotherapist.
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