Foot pressure distribution of patients with Hallux Valgus during walking up and down stairs

Abstract

Hallux Valgus is one of the most common deformities in orthopedic context, with direct influence on gait. For this pathology, the plantar pressure distribution analysis can be important as a complementary method of evaluation and diagnosis, as also in the follow-up of patient’s rehabilitation. This study has its framework in the context of the distribution of plantar pressure in patients with Hallux Valgus, with clinical indication for surgical treatment. The work involves the gait analysis in nine volunteers. The plantar pressure distribution was collected with an insoles measurement system for a defined protocol based on walking down and upstairs. The data have been registered in two moments: the day before surgery and ninety days after surgery. The analysis of the results, focused on the pathologic foot, shows that the foot pressure analysis, following a down and upstairs protocol, can play an important role as a surgical follow-up for the post-surgery phase.