Disclosed is a method for treating abnormalities of the first
metatarsophalangeal joint of the foot of a mammal comprising
administering a therapeutically effective amount of neuromuscular toxin
to the mammal. Preferred embodiments include administering toxins capable
of interfering with the connection between muscle and nerve, e.g.
botulinum toxin, to the patient to treat such abnormalities as hallux
abductovalgus, hallux varus, hallux limitus, and hallux rigidus.