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The e-mémoires of the Académie Nationale de Chirurgie

The hallux valgus through the ages of man

Raphaël Coursier

Seance of wednesday 24 january 2024 (Chirurgie de la cheville et du pied)

DOI number : 10.26299/rb3f-k414/emem.2024.03.03

Abstract

Hallux valgus in adults and children is frequently treated by orthopedists.
Anatomical and physiopathological knowledge make it possible to understand the deformations and to adapt the operative treatment to the different anatomo-clinical forms.
This pathology affects humans at any age but its appearance in Humanity is not clearly established.

The objective of this anatomical and historical work is to find the patient zero who was the first carrier of hallux valgus in human history. An ancestor of Homo Sapiens seems to be the ideal candidate: Homo Ergaster. The disappearance of the prehensile hallux and a permanent bipedal walk seem essential to the development of deformation. The lifestyle of men throughout history has also had an impact on the evolution of hallux valgus. This affection has also inspired many artists.
Finally, its treatment from antiquity to the present day has evolved from a minimalist management to a minimally invasive and percutaneous surgery.