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Functional hallux limitus: a review
Beverley Durrant1, Nachiappan Chockalingam
1Podiatry, University of Brighton, Eastbourne, East Sussex, Great Britain. b.durrant@brighton.ac.uk
Summary
Functional hallux limitus, a stiff big toe, impacts gait and foot biomechanics. This review examines the evidence for altered gait and measurement challenges in podiatric practice.
Area of Science:
- Podiatric biomechanics
- Gait analysis
- Orthopedic biomechanics
Background:
- Functional hallux limitus (FHL) is characterized by limited extension of the hallux proximal phalanx.
- Altered sagittal plane biomechanics and gait characteristics are theorized consequences of FHL.
- Existing evidence supports proposed gait alterations, but further research is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on functional hallux limitus.
- To analyze the reported effects of FHL on gait.
- To explore challenges in measuring foot joint motion.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of functional hallux limitus and gait analysis studies.
- Exploration of biomechanical principles related to sagittal plane motion.
- Discussion of methodologies for joint motion measurement in the foot.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests FHL influences gait patterns.
- Inconsistencies and challenges exist in current gait data acquisition.
- The understanding of FHL's biomechanical impact requires further validation.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive review of FHL literature is crucial for evidence-based practice.
- Further research is necessary to substantiate the biomechanical effects of FHL on gait.
- Improved measurement techniques are needed for accurate podiatric biomechanical assessment.