[Five myths around hallux valgus]

Hallux valgus, also known as a bunion, is one of the most frequent deformities of the forefoot. The prevalence is 23% in people between the ages of 18 and 65 years and 36% in people over 65 years of age. Hallux valgus deformity normally begins between the ages of 30 and 60 years. Women are overall more frequently affected than men. Hallux valgus is characterized by the valgus deviation of the big toe and the varus deviation of the first metatarsal bone (MT-I), also known as metatarsus primus varus. This deformity can lead to a pressure point on the medial MT‑I head due to shoe conflict and can restrict mobility. Hallux valgus is typically identifiable by a physical examination. Imaging techniques are important to assess the severity of the deformity and to rule out possible differential diagnoses, such as hallux rigidus. Hallux rigidus is a degenerative change of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP‑I joint) and the second most common cause of pain in the MTP‑I joint. A combination of hallux valgus and hallux rigidus is not uncommon. The treatment of hallux valgus initially focuses on nonsurgical approaches such as wider shoes, orthoses and nocturnal splints. If conservative treatment is not effective, surgical treatment provides a proven therapeutic benefit. In recent years minimally invasive techniques have also made progress in foot surgery. In addition to the reduced soft tissue trauma, the extra-articular approach in particular shows a significant advantage. This article provides a current overview of hallux valgus by addressing five widespread myths.