What to do if your big toe is turned outward

There are many reasons for hallux valgus, which can be generally divided into two types: congenital factors and acquired factors. Congenital factors are related to the conditions of muscles, nerves, and joints, and are also hereditary. The acquired factors are mostly due to wearing inappropriate shoes, such as wearing high heels, pointed shoes, etc., which cause long-term pressure. Different causes require different solutions. So, what should we do if the big toe is turned outward? Let’s take a look below.

1. Wear loose or open-toed shoes

When hallux valgus has reached a level that is visible to the naked eye, replace it with appropriate shoes in time. Loose or open-toed shoes can relax the soles of the feet, reduce the friction of the shoes on the eversion part, and prevent further aggravation of the deformity. In daily life, you can choose professional health shoes with arch support or shoes with massage function.

2. Wearing foot orthotics

Foot correctors are divided into those for daytime use and those for nighttime use. In summer, you should choose those that are light, thin and breathable. The principle is to physically correct the deformed parts through tension, so you should wear it for 6-8 hours a day. Generally, it will take about 3 months to see obvious results. When you first use the corrector, you can adjust the strength a little lower to slowly adapt, and then gradually increase the strength over time.

Exercise barefoot, strengthen foot muscle training, improve the mobility of interphalangeal joints, prevent further deterioration of deformities, and try to grab things with your toes. At first, grab towels and other things that are easier to grab, then gradually strengthen it and change to grabbing glass balls, beans, etc.

3. Foot bath and massage

Hallux valgus is a problem of muscles and bones. Use your fingers to bend the big toe inward while massaging the acupoints on the foot. Soak your feet in hot water before massage, and then massage them with your thumb about 50 times. Although the effect is not obvious, hot water foot bath has great benefits for the body. Massage can treat osteoporosis and enhance calcium absorption.

Operation

When hallux valgus is severe and the above conservative treatments cannot correct it, surgical treatment should be adopted. Hallux valgus surgery is a minimally invasive surgery. The price varies depending on the hospital and the severity of the disease. Generally, the price of three hospitals is about 3000-5000

5. Develop good eating and living habits

Eat more high-calcium foods, such as milk, eggs, and soy products, and more vitamins, such as vegetables and fruits.