A crooked big toe may be due to a condition called hallux valgus. This condition is often caused by genetic factors, or by a squeezing of shoes, resulting in a lesion of the mother toe and the first metatarsophalangeal joint, which in turn causes the bunion to turn outward. In this case, the bunion may squeeze the second or third toe laterally, and in severe cases, it may even drill under the second toe. This can lead to nail infection on the lateral aspect of the parent toe or arthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. In addition to the deformity of the foot, these patients may also experience significant pain in the above mentioned areas. Once this disease occurs, it is important to consult an orthopedic surgeon as soon as possible to determine the exact period of onset and the severity of the disease before taking the appropriate treatment. If left untreated, the deformity is likely to worsen continuously. At an older age, osteoarthritis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint may develop, and in severe cases, may result in complete loss of weight-bearing function.