Hallux valgus is a common foot condition that can cause pain and discomfort. It is also called a bunion and is characterized by a deviation of the big toe toward the other toes, resulting in a bony bump on the side of the foot at the base of the big toe. If left untreated, the condition can worsen and lead to complications such as osteoarthritis, chronic pain and difficulty walking.
At our orthopedic clinic in Zurich, we specialize in the treatment of hallux valgus and offer a range of individualized treatment options to relieve your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What causes hallux valgus?
Hallux valgus is usually caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Wearing shoes that are too tight or high heels can put pressure on the toes and throw them out of alignment. This can cause the big toe to drift toward the other toes, resulting in a bony bump on the side of the foot.
Other factors that may contribute to the development of hallux valgus include:
- Flat feet
- Overpronation (when the foot rolls excessively inward)
- Rheumatoid arthritis or other forms of arthritis
- Ligamentous laxity (when the ligaments in the foot are loose).
Hallux valgus symptoms
Symptoms of hallux valgus can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, patients experience no symptoms at all. However, the most common symptoms of hallux valgus include.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
- Swelling and inflammation
- Redness or warmth in the affected area
- Stiffness in the big toe
- Difficulty wearing shoes, especially those with a narrow toe box
- Calluses or corns on the affected area
How is hallux valgus treated?
At our orthopedic clinic in Zurich, we offer a range of individualized treatment options for hallux valgus. The treatment that is best for you depends on the severity of your condition and your individual needs.
Some of the treatment options we offer are:
- Adjusting footwear: wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels can relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotics can redistribute pressure on the foot and improve alignment.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help ease pain and reduce inflammation.
- Injection therapy: Corticosteroid injections can help relieve pain and inflammation in the affected area.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the bones in the foot and correct the deformity.
Why should you choose our orthopedic clinic for hallux valgus treatment?
Our orthopedic clinic in Zurich is staffed by a team of experienced and highly qualified orthopedic surgeons who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients with hallux valgus. We use the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to provide each patient with treatment tailored to their individual needs.
Our team of specialists includes orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists and other medical professionals who work together to ensure that each patient receives comprehensive and integrated care throughout their treatment.
If you suffer from the symptoms of hallux valgus, we recommend that you visit our orthopedic clinic in Zurich for a consultation. We will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
