7. Why are weight-bearing X-rays needed?
Standing images show alignment under load and allow measurement of the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, joint congruence, sesamoid position and arthritis. Non-weight-bearing images can underestimate functional deformity.
8. Do I need an MRI or ultrasound?
Not routinely. Weight-bearing X-rays are usually the principal imaging. Ultrasound or MRI may be helpful when symptoms suggest soft-tissue injury, sesamoid disease, nerve pathology, stress injury or another diagnosis not explained by the X-ray.
9. Can an X-ray determine the operation by itself?
No. Procedure selection also depends on pain location, flexibility, joint motion, arthritis, first-ray stability, lesser-toe problems, health, activity goals and previous treatment.