A crooked big toe can lead to many issues and should not be ignored. This blog will deal with a very common foot deformity: Hallux abductus, the medical term for when the big toe is curved inward. It will cover the causes of this deformity and discuss what can be done to address it, including the importance of proper footwear/shoes.
Hallux abducto valgus is the term that describes bunion deformity. In effect, there is a bump on the side of the big toe joint while the big toe bends or curves toward the second toe. Hallux means big toe, abducto valgus means big toe curves toward the second toe, while it also twists or rotates (valgus). This is a common deformity, especially in women.
Less common is a simple curvature of the big toe toward the second toe without the bump or bunion on the big toe joint. A bunion is a common cause of this, and addressing bunions promptly can prevent complications. When this occurs, the big toe often rides under the second toe, elevating or lifting the second toe and causing further issues as it rubs in the shoe.
What causes a big toe to be curved inward?
Causes of this deformity are usually some type of biomechanical abnormality in the foot, causing the big toe to be forced into the floor while walking. Bent toes can result from various common foot problems, impacting overall foot health. The ground pushes back against the big toe, which then pushes it toward the second toe. Over time, this permanently deforms the toe into the curved position. The big toe's bent position often worsens with certain types of footwear.
The underlying biomechanical issues are often genetically influenced. Other causes that can contribute to this condition are hypermobile or loose joints in the feet, pregnancy, which also loosens foot joints, or just abnormality in the way the foot moves.
In addition, the wrong footwear that compresses the big toe inward can gradually push it towards the second toe. Shoes that are too tight or narrow can cause this issue.
How do I stop my big toe from bending inwards?
The most important way to slow down or prevent bunions from getting worse and causing deformity comes down to proper shoes, and sometimes orthotics or well-made inserts in the shoes.
While, in some cases, the deformity will occur despite all interventions, more often than not it can be slowed down or prevented from worsening. The only way to undo the deformity once it has occurred, is surgery.
One key to minimizing the likelihood of developing or worsening this deformity is to manage abnormal forces in the foot and address the increased motion issues.
Why does a crooked big toe impact foot health?
A crooked big toe can significantly affect your feet, contributing to long-term problems. A crooked big toe, also known as hallux abducto valgus, or a bunion, can cause a variety of health issues in the foot. When the toe joint becomes misaligned, it results in pain and discomfort and can lead to arthritis if not addressed effectively. It's important to be aware of the pain associated with bunions and other toe issues. This condition can significantly impact daily life, making walking painful. The affected toe often bends or rotates, overlapping the second toe, increasing pressure, which can lead to issues like hammer toe, claw toe, or mallet toe development. Hammer toes and mallet toes can also be related to crooked toes. Early recognition and intervention of this deformity are vital to prevent it from affecting your quality of life.
What type of shoes are best for a big toe that curvesd inward?
Understanding how your shoes should fit and choosing the right footwear is crucial in managing and preventing toe deformities like a crooked big toe. Shoes must be properly fitted to provide ample room, preventing toes from overlapping. Opting for shoes designed to support foot alignment and accommodate orthotics can prevent bunion development and alleviate existing pain. For severe cases, footwear that includes features like cushioning can provide considerable relief.
Shoes that are stable, well made and allow for proper foot alignment are critical. In addition, as orthotics are often required in severe cases, the shoes should be extra deep and work well with orthotics.
The other important factor is proper shoe FIT. Shoes must be wide enough to not push the big toe toward the second toe. The toe box needs to be wide and ROUND, not pointed and deep. That's where Orthofeet comes in - their orthopedic shoes meet these criteria and are designed with features that allow for proper foot alignment and motion. In addition, the specialty shoe brand has stretchable shoes that accommodate the deformity when required. This can be especially helpful when the second toe is lifted up by the big toe.
Orthofeet also has well-made orthotic insoles that further control some of the abnormal forces that can bend the big toe inward. BioSole Gel Sport orthotics are especially helpful in supporting the foot and controlling some of the forces that cause the deformity.
Experience relief and comfort with Orthofeet's specialized shoes and inserts designed for big toe deformities, including wide-toe box shoes, shoes for hallux rigidus, and wide-width shoes.
