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Anatomical origin of forefoot varus malalignment
Rebecca S Lufler1, T M Hoagland, Jingbo Niu
1Anatomy and Cellular Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. rebecca.lufler@tufts.edu
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|September 25, 2012
Summary
Forefoot varus malalignment may stem from alterable soft-tissue issues, not unalterable bony talar torsion. This research challenges the traditional view of its cause, impacting treatment strategies for foot conditions.
Area of Science:
- Podiatry
- Orthopedic Biomechanics
- Anatomy
Background:
- Forefoot varus malalignment is a common foot condition.
- Its etiology is debated, with a potential link to bony talar torsion.
- Treatment often involves foot orthoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between forefoot alignment and bony talar torsion.
- To determine if bony talar torsion is the primary cause of forefoot varus.
Main Methods:
- Cadaveric study involving 49 feet from 25 individuals.
- Bilateral measurement of forefoot alignment using clinical methods.
- Dissection and measurement of bony talar torsion.
Main Results:
- No significant association was found between forefoot alignment and bony talar torsion (r = 0.18, P = .22).
- Mean forefoot alignment was -0.9° (valgus).
- Mean bony talar torsion was 32.8° (valgus).
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest forefoot varus may originate from alterable soft-tissue deformities.
- This challenges the notion of an unalterable bony cause.
- Implications for treatment strategies for forefoot varus are discussed.
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