Adolescent Hallux Valgus: Evaluation and Treatment

Adolescent hallux valgus is a challenging pathologic entity that differs from adult onset hallux valgus. It is most commonly seen in females, and genetic predisposition plays a strong role in its development. Evaluation and treatment of this pathologic process are unique and both clinical and radiographic findings are considered. Surgical treatment is initiated when conservative measures fail and it should be for relief of pain, not for cosmesis. The authors' preferred treatment is to avoid surgery until skeletal maturity; however, if surgical treatment is required, distal chevron osteotomy is our treatment of choice. Proximal osteotomies are avoided in the skeletally immature patient.