Background We sought to highlight the humanistic aspect of hallux valgus. Methods We conducted a bibliographic search between 2013 and 2017 of scientific, historic, and humanistic articles, in search of the anthropological dimension of hallux valgus. Museums and works of art by relevant painters were analzyed for the presence of hallux valgus. Results We showcase the linguistic origin of the terms related to hallux valgus, the evolution of its incidence depending on the footwear and social habits throughout history, the presence of hallux valgus in the work of great painters, and some other curiosities of this pathology. Conclusions The knowledge of the humanistic aspect of pathologies we treat, if not imperative for its proper surgical resolution, can help to improve the understanding of them.