Introduction: Hallux valgus (HV) is one of the most constant pathologies in orthopedics, compromising both soft and bony tissues of the first toe, being more common in women. This deformity is generated by a progressive subluxation in valgus of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTF) of the first toe and a varus deviation of the first metatarsal. Objective: to detail current information related to hallux valgus, case description, etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, history, clinical evaluation, imaging approach, classification, treatment, prognosis and complications. Methodology: a total of 50 articles were analyzed in this review, including review and original articles, as well as clinical cases, of which 37 bibliographies were used because the other articles were not relevant for this study. The sources of information were PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane; the terms used to search for information in Spanish, Portuguese and English were: hallux valgus, deformity, foot, metatarsal, bunions. Results: Hallux valgus deformity is relatively common, occurring in about 23% of adults aged 18 to 65 years and up to 36% of adults older than 65 years, and particularly in adult women, occurring in up to 30%. Conclusions: Hallux valgus, or bunion, is the valgus deviation of the first orthotic with a varus deviation of the first metatarsal. The establishment of a diagnosis can be made through physical examination, however imaging helps to determine the involvement of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. At the moment there are several surgical techniques developed to restore the deformity. Hallux valgus corrective surgery is effective, presenting high rates of pain relief, deformity correction and patient satisfaction, however it is not free of complications.