Transfer of plantar pressure from the medial to the central forefoot in patients with hallux valgus

Abstract

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate changes in plantar pressure distribution in feet affected by hallux valgus compared with their contralateral non-affected feet and with the feet of healthy control subjects. Methods: Thirty-six patients with unilateral hallux valgus who were indicated for surgery and 30 healthy subjects were assessed on a pedobarographic instrumented treadmill for step length and width, mean stance phase, and plantar foot pressure distribution. Plantar pressure distribution was divided into eight regions. Results: Significantly higher plantar pressures were observed in hallux valgus feet under the second and third metatarsal heads (p =.033) and the fourth and fifth toes (p