Valgus curvature of the big toe, or hallux valgus, is an orthopedic disease in which the thumb gradually deviates towards the other fingers. In the place of the joint of the first toe, a noticeable “bone” forms, which causes pain in the area of the front of the foot and makes it difficult to walk. In most cases, the pathology develops gradually and in the absence of treatment leads to persistent deformation.
Symptoms of valgus curvature of the foot
The first signs of deformity of the thumb on the leg are often ignored, as the pain only appears with the load. Characteristic symptoms:
- the appearance of bone bulge on the side of the first toe;
- discomfort or pain in the joint while walking;
- redness, corns or inflammation of soft tissues in the area of the “bone”;
- restriction of finger mobility and difficulty in choosing shoes;
- deformation of the front of the foot, when the finger is shifted to the neighboring ones.
Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the orthopedist determines the stage of development of the pathology and selects the appropriate treatment methods.
Stages of development of valgus foot
There are several successive stages that are characterized by the angle of deviation of the first finger:
- initial— deviation up to 20°, slight pain after load;
- moderate— 20—40°, pain in the joint when walking, corns appear;
- severe or severe— over 40°, the deformation becomes noticeable, inflammation of the joint is possible, deformities of the other fingers appear;
- complicated— restriction of movement, pain even at rest, difficult to choose shoes.
In the initial stages, treatment is possible without surgery — with the help of orthopedic insoles, exercises and physiotherapy procedures. In neglected cases, surgical treatment is required.
Why does valgus deformation occur?
The main factors leading to the development of hallux valgus:
- wearing shoes with a narrow toe or high heels;
- excessive load on the feet due to prolonged standing or excess weight;
- hereditary predisposition to weakness of ligaments;
- abnormalities of bone or soft tissues of the foot;
- consequences of injuries or flat feet.
Women face the problem more often because anatomically their ligaments are more elastic than men's, and wearing tight shoes accelerates deformation. Hormonal fluctuations also provoke inflammatory processes that worsen the condition.
Diagnosis of the disease
Diagnosis and treatment begin with consultation with an orthopedic traumatologist. The doctor conducts an examination, assesses the degree of curvature and analyzes how the load on the feet has changed. A standing x-ray is prescribed in several projections to assess the angle of deviation and the condition of the articular surfaces.
Based on the data obtained, the doctor determines the stage and develops a treatment plan for valgus. Proper diagnosis allows you to choose a method that will give the maximum effect with minimal trauma.
Treatment of valgus deformity of the foot in Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma
The method of treatment depends on the stage of the disease, the intensity of the pain and the degree of deformation of the first toe of the foot. In Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic, both conservative and surgical methods are used. The task of our doctors is to eliminate pain, restore the correct position of the finger and prevent re-curvature.
Conservative treatment
In the initial stages of hallux valgus, treatment methods without surgery can be effective:
- use of orthopedic insoles or silicone finger separators;
- physiotherapy procedures for the removal of inflammation;
- strengthening the muscles of the foot with the help of special exercises;
- selection of shoes with a wide toe and a stable sole;
- weight control to reduce the load on the feet.
Such measures reduce pain in the area of the thumb and slow down the progression of the deformity. But they are not able to turn the process around and restore the right angle. If the changes are pronounced and the pain interferes with walking, the orthopedic doctor may recommend surgical treatment.
Surgery for valgus deformity of the foot
Surgical intervention is performed when conservative treatment is already ineffective. The goal is to correct the position of the first finger and restore the correct axis of the front of the foot. The operation consists in correcting the position of bones and soft tissues, stabilizing the joint, and removing the bone protrusion.
Bone removal on the leg and correction of the joint are performed under X-ray control. This reduces the risk of complications and accelerates healing. In Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic, the orthopedist-traumatologist uses modern tools that allow to restore the anatomical shape of the foot
The price of surgery on the ankle in Lviv depends on the complexity of the curvature, the type of anesthesia and the amount of correction. The duration of the intervention usually ranges from 45 to 90 minutes.
Recovery after surgery to treat valgus
After the operation, the patient is under the supervision of medical personnel for the first day. The first steps can be taken the very next day in special Baruch orthopedic shoes. Recovery includes:
- control of swelling and pain in the first days;
- replacement of bandages and regular examination by an orthopedist;
- physiotherapy procedures to accelerate healing;
- exercises for the gradual restoration of joint mobility.
The load in special shoes is shown after 24 hours or a few days depending on the protocol of the operation. Transition to regular shoes — preferably 6—8 weeks, increasing activity — up to 3—6 months. Swelling may persist longer. In general, rehabilitation lasts up to half a year, after which the patient can return to the usual rhythm of life.
Prevention of halus-valgus
Prevention is aimed at reducing the load on the feet and strengthening the musculoskeletal system. Basic recommendations:
- wear shoes with a soft top and a wide toe so that your fingers do not squeeze;
- avoid wearing high-heeled shoes for a long time;
- perform exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and lower leg;
- control weight to reduce pressure on the front of the foot;
- regularly undergo a doctor's examination at the first symptoms of deformity.
Compliance with these rules helps prevent the development of hallux valgus or slow its progression.
Why choose Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Clinic for treatment
- Experienced specialists.Operations are performed by a team of orthopedic traumatologists who specialize in the treatment of foot deformities of varying degrees.
- Modern techniques.The most effective halus-valgus correction technologies are used, reducing the recovery period.
- Full course of treatment.In the clinic, diagnostics, surgery and rehabilitation are carried out under the supervision of one doctor.
- Comfortable conditions.Patients are under the constant supervision of specialists, which guarantees a safe recovery after surgery.
- Transparent cost.The cost of treatment is coordinated before the operation, with no hidden fees or additional costs.
Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Medical Center offers patients an accurate diagnosis and an individual approach. We apply modern technologies for the treatment of valgus deformity and treat each patient carefully, taking care of his well-being.
Price for treatment of valgus in Lviv
The cost depends on the stage of curvature, the method of correction and the duration of rehabilitation. The exact price of surgery for valgus deformity of the foot is determined after examination and consultation of the orthopedist, who evaluates the optimal treatment option for each patient.
