Valgus deformation of the first (large) toe is considered one of the most common pathologies in orthopedic practice. In folk medicine, this disease is often referred to as "cones" or "bones" on the legs, which is explained by the appearance of the thumb, which deflects and protrudes at the base outside.
Valgus deformity of toes - reasons
There are several factors underlying the development of valgus deformity of the finger:
- genetic predisposition;
- congenital weakness of connective and bony tissues;
- endocrine disorders;
- flat feet ;
- obesity;
- osteoporosis;
- diseases of cartilage joint tissue (rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus , etc.);
- long-term wearing of uncomfortable shoes (high heel, narrow sock);
- trauma to the foot, etc.
Symptoms of valgus deformity of the thumb
The disease develops for a long time with various manifestations. The first symptom is that the big toe begins to gradually deviate, as if falling over other fingers. Then, in the region of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, a bone growth occurs, which eventually increases more and more. In the area of this build-up, swelling and redness may appear.
The displacing first finger of the foot exerts pressure on the second finger, as a result of which the latter also deforms, acquiring a hammer-shaped form. On the joints of the other toes of the foot, bone growths also appear.
The valgus deformation of the first finger contributes to the development of an inflammatory process in the area of the joint bag, which is accompanied by painful sensations along the inner surface of the deformed finger. Patients suffer from rapid fatigue of the legs, a burning sensation and aches in the legs at the end of the day, difficulty walking. Also, the deformation of the fingers makes it impossible to wear habitual shoes, making it difficult to select.
The intensity of development and the degree of manifestation of pain can be different in different patients. For example, some women do not have pain at all, they are concerned only with the aesthetic moment of the disease. In others, even with a slight deformation, severe pain can be observed.
Conservative treatment of valgus deformity of the thumb
Methods of treatment of the disease depend on its stage. Conservative treatment can inhibit, and sometimes stop the growth of the stone on the foot. But in the case of a severe stage of the disease, it will not give positive results.
Conservative treatment implies the wearing of special orthopedic correctors, which include:
- insoles, insteps, interdigital ridges - to normalize the distribution of loads in the forefoot and visual alignment of the foot;
- finger adjusters - devices that are used during sleep, holding the first finger in the correct position;
- screeds - devices for maintaining the transverse arch of the foot;
- Orthopedic tires - designs that fix a deformed finger and do not allow it to deviate.
Also can be appointed:
- massage;
- medical baths;
- physiotherapy procedures for normalizing the muscular-ligamentous tone of the foot, improving blood circulation;
- use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Surgery for valgus deformity of the thumb
Surgical operation is the only effective method by which you can return the thumb to the correct position. There are a large number of types of surgical interventions to eliminate valgus deformities of the fingers, which are performed under local anesthesia.
As a rule, during the operation, the angle between the bones of the phalanx of the thumb is normalized, the tendons move and the right anterior arch of the foot is formed. In advanced cases, an osteotomy is required.