Hallux valgus or Bunion is a deformity of the Great toe involving the metacarpophalangeal joint and is characterized by a drift of the great toe in association with joint subluxation.
Hallux rigidus is osteoarthritis of the great toe (and is more debilitating than a bunion) with osteophytes at the same joint that restricts more motion rather than angulation. Both are painful conditions that can lead to a deterioration in foot health. People suffering from severe pain and deformity from these conditions frequently resort to surgery.
It is reported that hallux valgus affects 1/3 of the adult shoe-wearing population and is present in 70% of people above the age of 70. It is usually a result of long-time use of shoes with an enclosed toe box (steel caps, high heels etc.)
Hallux rigidus has been described as affecting 10% of people aged 20–34 years and 44% of people over the age of 80 years and is usually preceded by trauma or sports that overuse that joint.
Plain film radiography can offer a direct insight into the damage where swelling and deformity at the joint are apparent.
It is mainly treated through manual therapies that improve joint motion, education around foot ergonomics, and regular exercises that specifically target the area, both Hallux valgus and hallux rigidus symptoms are manageable through the early stage.
References
Brantingham JW, Cassa TK. Manipulative and Multimodal Therapies in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Great Toe: A Case Series. J Chiropr Med. 2015 Dec;14(4):270-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2015.07.003. Epub 2015 Dec 1. PMID: 26793039; PMCID: PMC4688554.
Manral DB. Hallux rigidus: A case report of successful chiropractic management and review of the literature. J Chiropr Med. 2004 Winter;3(1):6-11. doi: 10.1016/S0899-3467(07)60060-3. PMID: 19674618; PMCID: PMC2646982.
Gilheany MF, Landorf KB, Robinson P. Hallux valgus and hallux rigidus: a comparison of impact on health-related quality of life in patients presenting to foot surgeons in Australia. J Foot Ankle Res. 2008 Dec 11;1(1):14. doi: 10.1186/1757-1146-1-14. PMID: 19077213; PMCID: PMC2615430.
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