Diagnosis of the Bunion

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The diagnosis of hallux valgus is made with a clinical examination. Observing, palpating and watching the patient walking can help achieve a clear diagnosis in the majority of cases. The rest of the tests are complementary and serve to firm up the diagnosis and make decisions on the treatment.

Among the additional tests, the main one is: 

Person having a chest X-ray done

Simple weight-bearing X-ray of the foot. This imaging test provides the most information. It is done with the foot is planted on the detector and the weight of the body pressing on it. 

In some very specific cases, other tests may be performed such as an ultrasound, scanning or MRI. However, these tests are not usually needed and so are generally not requested. A gait analysis with a plantar pressure map or baropodometry may also be of interest

Substantiated information by:

Carolina Montoya
Cristina Casals Crosas
Daniel Poggio Cano
Jessica Martínez Castillejo
Jordi Fluvià Creus

Published: 20 February 2018
Updated: 24 March 2025

The donations that can be done through this webpage are exclusively for the benefit of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona through Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica and not for BBVA Foundation, entity that collaborates with the project of PortalClínic.

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