From the Research
Combat soldiers are not definitively more likely to have hallux valgus (bunions) compared to the general population, though they may have risk factors that could contribute to its development. Hallux valgus is a foot deformity where the big toe deviates toward the other toes, creating a bony prominence at the joint. For combat soldiers, the combination of prolonged standing, marching with heavy loads, and wearing restrictive military footwear could potentially increase their risk. Military boots, especially if ill-fitting, may compress the toes and create pressure points that exacerbate the condition. Additionally, the repetitive impact from tactical movements and running on varied terrain might place additional stress on the forefoot. However, the military's physical fitness requirements and pre-selection screening may actually exclude individuals with pre-existing foot problems, potentially reducing the overall prevalence in this population. Some key points to consider include:
- The lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies specifically comparing hallux valgus rates between military personnel and civilians, as noted in various studies 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The potential for military footwear and activities to contribute to the development of hallux valgus, as discussed in studies such as 3 and 1.
- The importance of considering the military's physical fitness requirements and pre-selection screening in assessing the prevalence of hallux valgus in this population, as hinted at in 1. Without comprehensive epidemiological studies, we cannot conclusively state that combat soldiers have higher rates of this condition. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between combat soldier activities and hallux valgus development, as suggested by the need for studies like 5.