Adolescent hallux valgus: its etiology and surgical management.

Although most patients who seek relief are adults, the problem of hallux valgus frequently begins at an earlier age. In the juvenile patient, except for congenital anomalies or inflammatory juvenile rheumatic disease, hallux abducto valgus appears to be related to the biochemical malfunction. It requires not only surgical management, but also the use of orthotics or surgical stabilization.