Hallux Valgus

Strengthening the intrinsic foot muscles is key in conservative treatment for hallux valgus. Recommended exercises: ① Toe pinching (strengthening flexor hallux brevis and flexor digitorum), ② Toe spreading (activating abductor muscles), ③ Short foot exercise (strengthening arch muscles), ④ Heel raises (combining strengthening of calf and arch). When performed at least 5 times a week, an inhibitory effect on the progression of valgus angle is reported after 6 months.

Perspective of Korean Medicine Clinic

In Korean medicine, weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles is an external manifestation of a condition where the function of organs responsible for digestion and absorption is impaired, resulting in insufficient nutrient supply to the muscles. The effectiveness of exercise is doubled once Qi and blood are first released through acupuncture and moxibustion. At Dongjedang, we monitor the progress of rehabilitation exercises at every treatment session and guide patients to exercise while Qi and blood circulation is active by coordinating the timing (20 minutes of strength training immediately after treatment).