Hallux valgus: its effects on walking

Hallux valgus (bunions) develop over a very long period and it is too late when they explicitly appear: this is why taking care of your feet preventively when they appear is essential.

A cascade of consequences

In hallux valgus, the big toe turns inward and deviates laterally toward the second toe, creating a bunion that makes wearing shoes difficult and hinders walking—even barefoot. Because the big toe no longer points forward and therefore offers no support, a feeling of instability develops. The gait cycle is abruptly interrupted, and the walking motion is no longer fluid. To restore the foot's grip on the ground, the other toes straighten: the second toe first, which shortens the tendons and ligaments so that the toes maintain their clawed position.

These cumulative effects cause friction against the end of the shoe, calluses, pinched or compressed nerves, and consequently, further pain and discomfort. Affected women then try to use other muscles, which makes their gait even less graceful and requires them to adjust their walk even further to move forward as efficiently as possible. This consumes a tremendous amount of energy that they could otherwise use elsewhere.

As walking becomes increasingly uncomfortable, women who have developed hallux valgus end up avoiding walking as much as possible. The final stage of this terrible cycle: the foot stiffens and becomes unable to roll properly. Walking becomes a punishment where it should be a liberation.

Let's protect our feet; they are a precious asset.

Our feet are a precious asset. It is essential to cherish and care for them to preserve their health and function. When our feet fail us, our quality of life is inevitably affected.