What is Hallux Valgus?

Bunions are a common cause of foot pain

What are Bunions (Hallux Valgus)?
How does a Bunion Develop?
What Are the Different Degrees of Bunion Severity?

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 malalignment of the two bones that form the base joint of the big toe (also called the metatarsophalangeal joint). Due to the misalignment, 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 an extremely serious, painful condition over time, if neglected.

How does Bunion Aid treat Hallux Valgus?

Realigns big toe malpositioning of mild to moderate bunions
Maintains surgical fixation of big toe post-operatively
Restores normal flexing action of foot
Improves balance and stabilizes gait

The small joints of your feet support your body’s full weight as you walk, run and climb stairs throughout the day. The base joint of your big toe bears most of that stress. When your feet are properly aligned, the biomechanical system works beautifully; but with bunions, the mechanics change, shifting stress to the other joints in the foot. The base joint also begins to lose its range of motion. Combined, these factors can cause the base joint to become swollen and painfully inflamed, and can eventually lead to progressive arthrosis and/or arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms of Bunions (Hallux Valgus):

Malpositioning of the big toe and base joint
Increasing pain when walking, running or standing
Formation of calluses on the medial border of the big toe
Chronic irritation of the skin and base joint bursa (small, fluid-filled sac designed to cushion friction between bone, muscle, tendons, and skin around a joint)
Progressive arthrosis (degenerative disease of the joint) and/or arthritis and stiffening in the base joint of the toe
Podiatric deformities such as hammer and claw toe

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How Does a Bunion Develop?

Some people are simply 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 (over1.5”) – 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

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What Are the Different Degrees of Bunion (Hallux Valgus) Severity?

Generally speaking, there are four degrees of bunion severity:

1st Degree

Toe malpositioning below 20 degrees. No symptoms.
Bunion Aid™ can be used in this phase for early prevention!

2nd Degree

Malpositioning between 20 and 30 degrees. Occasional pain.
In this phase, the Bunion Aid splint is used more frequently to correct the malpositioning.

3rd Degree

Malpositioning between 30 and 50 degrees. Regular pain. Increasing restraints on activities.
Pronounced malpositioning!
A consultation with a medical care professional is recommended prior to using Bunion Aid.

4th Degree

The most severe form of bunions, with malpositioning over 50 degrees and painful restraints on everyday activities. Bunion Aid is not recommended as the first measure. If your physician has recommended surgery, Bunion Aid might be recommended to assist in post-surgical rehabilitation.

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

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