About Hallux Valgus

What are Bunions (Hallux valgus)?

In orthopedics, “bunions” and Hallux valgus are terms used to describe one of the most common ailments of the foot—especially among women.


A bunion is a mal-alignment of the two bones that form the base joint of the big toe (also called the metatarsophalangeal joint). Due to the mis-alignment, the big toe begins to angle inward towards the other toes, thrusting the base joint out further in the opposite direction. 


Aside from being unsightly, bunions can develop into a painful condition over time, if neglected.

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Bunion known as Hallux valgus

  



Signs and symptoms of bunions (Hallux valgus): 

  1. Mal-positioning of the big toe and base joint
  2. Increasing pain when walking, running or standing
  3. Formation of calluses on the medial border of the big toe
  4. Chronic irritation of the skin and base joint bursa*
  5. Progressive arthrosis (degenerative disease of the joint) and/or arthritis and stiffening in the base joint of the toe
  6. Podiatric deformities such as hammer toe and claw toe 

      *small, fluid-filled sac designed to cushion friction between bone, muscle, tendons, and skin around a joint


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How does a bunion develop? 

Some people are genetically predisposed toward bunions. Genetic causes that can lead to bunions include weak connective tissues in the foot, as well as “load deformities” such as flatfoot and splayfoot. 

Other causes of bunions include injuries and certain activities that cause chronic inflammation. Contrary to popular belief, bunions are not primarily caused by wearing tight, “pointy-toed” shoes and/or high heels (over 1.5”) – although doing so may substantially contribute to the further progression of a bunion. 

Common causes of bunions include:

  • Genetics, inherited predisposition
  • Acquired “load deformity” as a result of splayfoot (flat feet)
  • Deterioration of the base joint due to arthrosis
  • Constitutional tissue weakness and muscular dysfunction
  • Muscle and nerve damage, neurological dysfunction, chronic inflammations or injuries to the foot

 Bunion Xray

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What are the degrees of bunion (Hallux valgus) severity?

1st Degree
Toe mal-positioning below 20 degrees. Possible inflammation. Bunion Aid®, the flexible, hinged splint, can be worn while walking for early prevention!

2nd Degree
Mal-positioning between 20 and 30 degrees. Occasional pain. In this phase, the Bunion Aid day and night splint is used more frequently to correct the mal-positioning.

3rd Degree
Mal-positioning between 30 and 50 degrees. Regular pain. Increasing restraints on activities. Pronounced mal-positioning! Consult a medical care professional prior to using Bunion Aid. 

In the meantime, wear an arch support, such as the Medial Mid-foot Brace, to stabilize the metatarsal bones and take pressure way from the bunion while wearing shoes.

4th Degree
The most severe form of bunions, with mal-positioning over 50 degrees and painful restraints on everyday activities. Bunion Aid is not recommended as the first measure. Instead, wear an arch support, such as the Medial Mid-foot Brace, to stabilize the metatarsal bones and take pressure way from the bunion while wearing shoes. If your physician has recommended surgery, Bunion Aid might be recommended to assist in post-surgical rehabilitation.

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bunion non-deformity
Mild to moderate bunion deformity
Moderate bunion deformity
Advanced bunion and hammer toe
1st Degree
 2nd Degree
 3rd Degree
 4th Degree

 

How does Bunion Aid treat Hallux valgus?

Bunion Aid splint bunion treatment
  1. anatomically curved metatarsal and toe straps provide comfort and fit
  2. adjustable strapping system aligns big toe
  3. dual strapping system stabilizes the mid-foot arch
  4. padded hinged splint protects irritated tissue and absorbs pressure
  5. adjustable metatarsal pad relieves pain of toe joints, optimizing pressure distribution
  6. maintains surgical fixation of toe and shortens rehab time after bunion surgery
  7. one size fits most, left or right foot
  8. Realigns big toe mal-positioning of mild to moderate bunions
  9. Maintains surgical fixation of big toe after bunion surgery
  10. Restores normal flexing action of foot
  11. Improves balance and stabilizes gait

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How can Bunion Aid prevent and treat bunions? Learn more >