What does "hallux valgus" mean?

Bunion: Hallux valgus is the medical term that is used to described what is commonly called a bunion. There are many nuances to this condition but essentially there is a deformity at the joint where the big toe meets the rest of the foot causing a medial prominence.

Technical term.: "hallux valgus" is the technical term for a bunion, the bump some people develop at the big toe joint. "hallux" refers to the big toe itself, and "valgus" means it's rotating toward the lesser toes.

Big toe deviation: Hallux valgus is a progressive disorder referring to a rotations and deviation of the big toe creating a “bump” on the side of the big toe joint. The visible bump actually reflects changes in the framework of that joint and possibly adjacent joints. In later stages, the big toe may lean towards the second toe throwing the bones out of alignment which may lead to pain and abnormal function.