KnotesFree Orthopaedic & FRCS notes, viva stations and higher order SBAs

Hallux valgus

High YieldFoot & AnklethinKbox SBA

Definition

Lateral deviation of the great toe with medial deviation of the first metatarsal, producing a bunion deformity.

Clinical features

  • Medial eminence pain
  • Forefoot shoe-wear problems
  • Overlapping toes and transfer metatarsalgia
  • Cosmetic concern

Assessment

  • Hallux valgus angle
  • Intermetatarsal angle
  • First TMT instability if present
  • MTP joint congruity
  • Associated lesser toe deformity

Treatment

Non-operative

  • Shoe modification
  • Pads or spacers
  • Analgesia

Operative

  • Distal osteotomy for mild deformity
  • Shaft or proximal osteotomy for more severe deformity
  • Lapidus procedure when first TMT instability is important
  • MTP fusion in severe arthritis or salvage situations

Diagram

Hallux valgus

Written/reviewed by Kishore Puthezhath

Professor of Orthopaedics and Consultant Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgeon

FRCS (Tr & Orth) revision resource

Reviewed: September 2026