Hallux valgus is a misalignment of the big toe. This misalignment usually starts later in life and worsens with age. It is estimated that about 30% of people have a crooked position of the big toe. The big toe grows crooked in the direction of the other toes. The metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP), which is located just above the joint stones, turns outwards. This causes a lump on the side, which is also called a “bunion”. This lump can become larger and stiffer, leading to increased symptoms.
Cause of hallux valgus
The cause of the development of a hallux valgus is often not entirely clear. A hereditary factor seems to play a role, and it also occurs more often in women than in men. Slack foot muscles, flat feet and flexibility in the foot joints seem to contribute to the development of hallux valgus.
Symptoms can be exacerbated by wearing tight shoes and high heels, which irritate the lump on the side of the foot.
How do you tape a hallux valgus?
If the misalignment and the associated symptoms get much worse, surgery is recommended in the long run. However, a therapist can also help with pain management before this phase, by providing advice and an exercise programme to treat hallux valgus. The application of kinesiology taping within this treatment can provide pain relief and correct the angle of the misalignment.
- Cut an I-tape with a narrower shape at the base (black) and a Y-tape (lime).
- The base of the first black tape is applied to the origin of the proximal phalanx. The foot is in rest position, the client extends the big toe.
- The tape then follows the inside of the foot joint to the end of the tuber calcanei medial. Rub the tape well for better adhesion.
- The second lime Y tape is applied with the base under the ball of the foot.
- The distal strip of the tape is applied over the metatarsophalangeal joints of the total foot up to the lateral malleolus.
- The distal strip is applied at full stretch, with the distal arch passively supported by the therapist.
- Then apply the proximal strip over the back of the foot up to the lateral malleolus (varus os metatarsale 1).
Option: Instead of cutting a recess as shown in the instruction video, it is also possible to cut a Y-shape as a base at the proximal phalanx.Option: CureTape® Sports is also extremely suitable for foot constructions. CureTape Sports is made of viscose and has a stronger adhesive layer so it stays in place (even) longer than CureTape Classic.
More information:
- Request a CureTape® sample pack for free »
- Continue reading about CureTape kinesiology tape and it’s effectiveness »
- Browse through the CureTape products in our webshop »
- Continue reading about kinesiology taping instructions »
Please note that applications provided on our website are not clinically proven. All mentioned applications are based on extensive evaluation and case studies with licensed physiotherapists and/or other health professionals.
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