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The hallux, commonly referred to as the big toe (also as great toe or thumb toe), even though it's not actually the biggest toe on the foot of some people, and is the innermost toe of the foot, counted as digit I.
In humans, the hallux is longer than the second or pointer toe for a majority of people. This is an inherited trait in humans, where the dominant gene causes the normal length hallux while the homozygous recessive genotype presents with a longer second toe. (Commonly known as "mitten foot" or "Morton's toe"). People with the rare genetic disease fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva characteristically have short big toes.
In birds with anisodactyl or heterodactyl feet, the hallux is opposed or directed backwards and allows for grasping and perching.
Problems
A common problem involving the big toe is the formation of bunions (or Hallux valgus), an abnormal enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the toe.
The big toe is also the most common locus of ingrown nails and gout attacks.
The hallux is also used for balance in the human body.
See also
External links
- Textbook of Hallux Valgus and Forefoot Surgery, complete text online in PDF files
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