Hallux flexus: Review of current opinion on aetiology and management

Hallux flexus is a deformity of the foot characterised by elevation of the first metatarsal head and fixed flexion at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. The deformity is predominantly seen in children following clubfoot surgery or with cerebral palsy. In this article, current opinion on the aetiology and treatment of hallux flexus is reviewed. We argue that a conservative approach to management is appropriate initially, with subsequent soft tissue or skeletal surgery if appropriate.