Relationship between proximal articular set angle and hallux abducto valgus

A study of radiographs from 50 males and 50 females was undertaken to determine whether a relationship existed between the proximal articular set angle and the hallux abductus angle. Gender differences in the relationship were also investigated. The normal range for the proximal articular set angle was -2.6 degrees to 8.6 degrees, with a mean of 5 degrees. There was no significant difference in the mean values between males and females. A positive linear correlation between the proximal articular set angle and hallux abducto valgus deformity was found (R(2) = 0.52), suggesting that an increased lateral tilt of the metatarsal head is one of the factors that lead to hallux abducto valgus deformity. The relationship between proximal articular set angle and hallux abducto valgus deformity was similar in males and females and did not account for the increased hallux deformity seen in females.