Hindfoot motion following reconstruction for posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Biomechanics
• Podiatry

Background:

• Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) can cause hindfoot deformity.
• Advances in technology allow for segmental gait analysis to assess PTTD.
• Surgical reconstruction is a common treatment for PTTD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate hindfoot motion and ankle power after surgical reconstruction for PTTD.
• To utilize a segmental foot model during gait analysis to assess surgical outcomes.
• To compare postoperative gait parameters with a normal control group.

Main Methods:

• Twenty patients with Stage 2 PTTD underwent surgical reconstruction.
• A 4-segment foot model was used for 3D gait analysis.
• Temporal-spatial parameters, hindfoot motion, and ankle power were calculated.

Main Results:

• Walking velocity, cadence, and step length were similar to controls.
• Patients showed significantly reduced single support time.
• No statistical difference in hindfoot motion or ankle power was found between affected and unaffected sides or controls.

Conclusions:

• Surgical reconstruction for PTTD leads to quantifiable objective improvements.
• Gait analysis demonstrates enhanced walking velocity, hindfoot motion, and power post-surgery.
• This preliminary study suggests positive functional outcomes following PTTD surgical repair.