Quantitative motion analysis in patients with hallux rigidus before and after cheilectomy

The purpose of this study was to quantify changes in temporal-spatial parameters and multisegmental foot/ankle kinematics in a group of patients with hallux rigidus following cheilectomy. Three-dimensional motion analysis was conducted using a 15-camera Vicon Motion Analysis System on a population of 19 patients who underwent cheilectomy for hallux rigidus. Data were analyzed using the four-segment Milwaukee Foot Model. Preoperative and postoperative tests were compared using paired parametric methods. Results showed significant improvements in walking speed, cadence, stride length, and stance/swing ratio from preoperative to postoperative state. Altered hallux and forefoot positions preoperatively showed shifts towards normal after cheilectomy. Although clinical improvements in pain and passive range of motion were statistically significant, similar improvements in range of motion were not demonstrated during ambulatory testing. The results of this study provide insight into ambulatory improvements following cheilectomy, and suggest further study of the rehabilitation process to improve the recovery of functional range of motion.