[3] Hallux Valgus Flashcards
What is hallus valgus commonly termed?
Bunion
What is hallux valgus?
A deformity at the first metatarsophalangeal joint
What is hallux valgus characterised by?
Medial deviation of the first metatarsal and lateral deviation with or without rotation of the hallux, associated with joint subluxation
How common in hallux valgus?
One of the most common foot problems in adult population, with a prevalence of around 35% in those aged >65 years
Which gender is hallux valgus more common in?
Women
What should happen to the digits during the gait cycle?
They should remain parallel to the long axis of the foot
What makes it possible for the digits to remain parallel to the long axis of the foot during the gait cycle?
Balance between static stabilisers and dynamic stabilisers
What are the static stabilisers in the foot?
Bones and ligaments
What are the dynamic stabilisers in the foot?
Muscles and tendonsq
What is the result of the gross anatomy on the foot on the first metatarsal?
It means the first metatarsal is inherently unstable, heavily relying on the stabilising structures
What is the result on the heavy reliance of the first metatarsal on other structures for stability?
There is a greater risk of disturbing the fine balance
What happens once the metatarsal head escapes the intrinsic anatomical control?
The extrinsic tendons become a deforming force, causing the first metatarsal head to drift medially
What does the medial joint tension cause when the metatarsal head escapes intrinsic anatomical control cause?
The bone to proliferate on the dorsomedial aspect of the head of the first metatarsal, with the cartilage being affected by the subsequent remodelling
What factors can further contribute to hallux valgus?
Anatomical variants
Genetic predisposition
Environmental factors
What footwear can contribute to hallux valgus in predisposed individuals?
Wearing high-heeled or narrow-fitting footwear
Why can high-heeled or narrow fitting footwear contribute to hallux valgus?
It keeps the hallux in a valgus position
What are the main risk factors for developing hallux valgus?
Female
Connective tissue disorders
Hypermobility syndromes
What anatomical variants predispose to the development of hallux valgus?
Long first metatarsal bone
Malalignment of the first MTP
Flat feet
How does hallux valgus typically present?
Painful medial prominence
What is likely to aggravate the painful medial prominence in hallux valgus?
Walking
Weight-bearing activities
Wearing narrow toed shoes
Describe likely symptom progression in hallux valgus
Symptoms have often been present for some time before progression, however have worsened in frequency and intensity