In case of inflammation, it is best to first see your doctor, who will certainly advise you to use a pain-relieving ointment and then refer you to a specialist. Together with him or her, you can discuss further steps, such as whether you need a splint, a special shoe or surgery, depending on the Hallux valgus angle and the severity of the symptoms.
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What is a Hallux valgus angle and when is surgery necessary?
The Hallux valgus angle describes the extent of the toe malposition and is the angle between the longitudinal axis of the big toe and the 1st metatarsal. You are probably also wondering when an operation for the toe deformity will be necessary or when you can still use aids such as shoes. Plasters etc. Indicators such as the hallux valgus angle and the intermetatarsal angle are particularly important for an operation. Both angles, i.e. also the hallux valgus angle, are drawn on the X-ray before the operation. The Hallux valgus angle in particular is used to determine the severity of the Hallux valgus and thus to assess whether an operation is necessary. Basically, one can say that the greater the hallux valgus angle, the greater the likelihood of an operation.
In the case of chronic pain, restricted mobility, severe joint wear or if the toe threatens to stiffen, or if it is beginning to stiffen, you should ask your doctor for his or her opinion, or seek a further, specialist opinion. Depending on the hallux valgus angle, the big toe is straightened or the affected joint is stiffened during the operation in order to limit the overmovement. Sometimes, depending on the Hallux valgus angle, several techniques are combined.
Hallufix® Hallux valgus
Splint
However, before you should consider Hallux valgus angle or surgery, in weaker stages, other Aids can be used. Surgery to correct the Hallux valgus angle should really be a last resort treatment. Subsequent treatments aim to relieve your pain and prevent Hallux valgus from progressing. Likewise, the normal functioning of the foot, toe, etc. should be restored or maintained. One therapy to accomplish this is a Hallux valgus splint: it is designed to push the big toe away from the other toes through mechanical pressure, muscles and tendons adapt over time and the deformity can be corrected. Depending on the model and the degree of deformity, you wear the splint either at night or during the day, although you may still experience pain at first.
Hallux valgus
Causes
Hallux valgus - also known as bunions - is a malposition of the big toe that can not only cause pain, but also prevent the sole of the foot from rolling correctly. This in turn can lead to further pain, so that aids such as special foot orthoses or even an operation become necessary. Hallux valgus shoes or even an operation may become necessary. The causes are varied and range from weak connective tissue, a splay foot or even wearing shoes that are too tight/not suitable. Wearing high-heeled shoes can also promote Hallux valgus, as the resulting pressure compresses and strains the joints at the base of the toes. Familial predisposition often plays a role - weak connective tissue is inherited, which favours Hallux valgus.
Hallux valgus
Pain in retirement
Depending on the severity, Hallux valgus pain often occurs during movements such as walking or running, but can also cause pain at rest. The pain does not have to be permanent, but comes and goes. The cause is often due to pressure points or inflammation that occur at the ball of the big toe, especially when shoes are worn too tightly. Other reasons why hallux valgus can cause pain are bursitis in the area of the big toe or inflammation of the synovium.
Hallux valgus
Inflammation - which home remedies help?
Inflammation in particular is extremely painful. Fortunately, there are a few home remedies that can help against inflammation. For example, squeeze marigold petals and collect the juice. You can then apply the juice to the affected area several times and let it take effect. You can repeat this procedure several times a day. On the other hand, you should be careful with cooling or heat - cold can have a rather painful effect on the respective area.
Hallux valgus inflammation ointment
In addition to calendula, which you can squeeze and use yourself, the pharmacy also offers a good calendula ointment as an alternative, which achieves the same effects. You can also apply this to the painful area a few times a day and let it take effect.
Hallux Valgus Voltaren
If the pain is more severe, it may be appropriate to use pain-relieving ointments such as Voltaren pain gel for a short time. This contains the active ingredient diclofenac, which is particularly pain-relieving and can help to treat inflammation. However, ointments or tablets should not be taken permanently; you should always ask your doctor for advice.
FAQ
The pain can occur in different places, but most often the focus of the pain is in the area of the big toe and the surrounding tissue. However, the pain can also occur on the underside of the metatarsus or on the ball of the foot - especially if the shoe is literally pressing.
You will certainly ask yourself this question before treatment or even surgery, as it depends mainly on the angle of the Hallux valgus. In principle, however, it can be said that a deformity of the big toe does not simply go back on its own. However, especially in the early stages, a worsening of the condition can be stopped and contained so that the Hallux valgus angle is relatively small and surgery is often not necessary.
