Most of us are all too familiar with the problem of “bunions” or “bumps” on the feet. They are unaesthetic, make it difficult to wear beautiful shoes, and most importantly, cause severe pain. What exactly is this pathology and how to deal with it will be explained by Nikolay Shavga, Doctor of Medical Sciences, vertebrologist, orthopedic traumatologist, doctor of the highest category, holder of the title Om emerit.

What are the “bunions” on the feet?
Hallux valgus — this is what orthopedists call the deformity of the big toe in Latin or simply put — “bunions” on the feet. Valgus deformity of the big toe leads to inflammation in the area of the joint capsule, causing pain along the inner side of the first toe. The cause of hallux valgus is longitudinal and transverse flat feet, which always has a hereditary nature.

At what age can they appear?
It is traditionally believed that valgus deformity is an “adult” disease, but it also occurs in childhood and adolescence. In my practice, there have been cases where surgical intervention for hallux valgus was needed as early as 10-11 years old. However, most often, “bunions” affect mature people aged 35-40, with women developing “bumps” much more frequently than men.

Why do “bunions” appear in children?
The development of valgus deformity is related both to hereditary predisposition and external factors. Wearing improper footwear, especially if the pathology runs in the family, greatly increases the risk that a child will suffer from “bunions” already in early adolescence. It is very important that during the foot formation period — from one year to 16 years old — children wear quality orthopedic shoes. However, recently parents tend to put their kids in fashionable sneakers or trainers, which leads to the development of flat feet. Moreover, most girls start wearing high-heeled fashion shoes from the age of 12, which overloads the front part of the foot and contributes to the appearance of “bunions.”

So, is fashion largely to blame?
Absolutely. The development of irreversible transverse flat feet is often associated with chronic overload of the forefoot. Narrow shoe toes and high heels are undeniably stylish but can lead to disastrous consequences. This is why 98% of those suffering from valgus deformity are women.

What unpleasant consequences can “bunions” lead to?
The “bunion” sticks out unattractively, making the foot wider. The person constantly experiences foot pain and fatigue, and over time deforming osteoarthritis of the foot joints may develop, which in turn leads to decreased work capacity and disability.

Does excess weight affect the development of this pathology?
Definitely. As is well known, excess weight affects the entire musculoskeletal system, and the feet are no exception.

What treatment methods are effective in this case?
The speed of deformity progression is significantly influenced by heredity, physical activity, and whether or not conservative preventive treatment is carried out. Correcting an existing deformity by conservative methods is almost impossible. Currently, there are over 400 surgical techniques. The most effective are reconstructive procedures that correct both flat feet and valgus deviation of the first toe. These surgeries are more complex, require patience from the patient, but allow them to achieve the necessary result. At our Clinic of Vertebrology, Orthopedics, and Traumatology, we use minimally invasive methods to correct valgus deformity of the first toe. Our techniques focus on correcting the transverse arch of the foot and changing the angular relationships between the foot bones, restoring natural anatomy with excellent aesthetic results.

Why can’t hallux valgus be treated conservatively, given the widespread advertising of non-invasive correction methods in the media and on the internet?
Why do “bunions” appear? As we discussed, valgus deformity develops due to disruption of the anatomically correct position and “relationship” of the foot bones. Therefore, removing the “bump” with a laser does not solve the problem. After some time, the “bunion” will grow back, and all associated problems will return.

What advice can you give to prevent valgus deformity?
Wear proper shoes—they should be wide and deep enough so that the bunions are not compressed. Avoid high-heeled shoes, watch your weight. Follow your orthopedist’s advice and use custom orthopedic insoles that help distribute the load properly when walking and running.

What should parents know so their children do not suffer from this ailment?
Take care of feet from childhood! Unfortunately, flat feet do not receive due attention and having it in younger children is often considered normal. Proper footwear and foot gymnastics are two rules that must be strictly followed.

What does proper orthopedic footwear look like?
It must have a small heel, high backs, and closed toes to properly fix the foot. The shoe should be fairly rigid and preferably have laces rather than Velcro. Often, the presence of a supinator (arch support) leads parents to think that any shoe is orthopedic, even sneakers. But this is not true; a supinator is a kind of stand that supports the foot. Remember, any disease is easier to prevent than to treat later, so don’t skimp on children’s shoes, take care of your kids, and stay healthy!

Clinic of Pediatric Vertebrology, Orthopedics, and Traumatology.

Appointments: tel.: 079755402.

Text by Maria Braylyan

Magazine SANATATE — your guide to a healthy lifestyle!