Hallux Valgus

 Hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, refers to a gradual change in the alignment of the big toe joint where the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes and a bony prominence develops on the inside of the foot. This joint plays an important role in stability and push-off during walking and running.

Hallux valgus develops over time due to a combination of mechanical loading, joint structure, and soft tissue factors. While structural alignment contributes to the visible bunion, symptoms are often influenced by irritation of surrounding tissues, reduced foot strength, altered movement patterns, and the ability of the joint to tolerate load during daily activity.

 • A visible bump on the inside of the big toe joint

• Pain, tenderness, or swelling around the bunion

• Discomfort with walking, running, or prolonged standing

• Irritation from tight or narrow footwear

• Reduced big toe movement or stiffness

• Callus formation or pressure under the forefoot

• Gradual progression of toe alignment over time

• Genetic or structural foot alignment factors

• Footwear that compresses the toes or limits natural movement

• Reduced strength of the intrinsic foot muscles

• Altered load distribution through the forefoot during walking

• Limited ankle mobility or lower limb mechanics

• Repetitive weight-bearing or prolonged standing

• Previous irritation or injury to the big toe joint

Physiotherapy for hallux valgus focuses on reducing pain, improving foot strength and control, and optimizing movement to reduce stress on the big toe joint. While physiotherapy cannot reverse bony alignment changes, it can significantly improve comfort, function, and load tolerance during daily and athletic activities.

Physiotherapy management may include:

• Strengthening of the intrinsic foot muscles and lower limb

• Exercises to improve big toe mobility and joint control

• Movement retraining to reduce forefoot overload during walking and running

• Gradual return to impact or higher-load activities as tolerated

• Activity and load management to balance movement with symptom control

• Footwear guidance, toe spacers, or taping strategies when appropriate

• Manual therapy to address joint or soft tissue restrictions when indicated

Recovery timelines vary depending on symptom severity, joint changes, and activity demands. Many individuals experience meaningful improvement in pain and function over weeks to months with a structured rehabilitation program. Early management can help reduce irritation, support comfortable movement, and slow progression of symptoms.