Hallux valgus in a random population in Spain and its impact on quality of life and functionality

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Hallux valgus (HV) and the association between the presence thereof and quality of life, dependence for basic and instrumental activities of daily living and foot function. Prevalence study was carried out in a random population sample (n = 1837) (α = 0.05; Precision = ±2.2%). Informed consent and ethical review board were obtained (code 2008/264). We studied anthropometric variables, Charlson Comorbidity Index, function and state of foot [Foot Function index (FFI), Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ)], quality of life (SF-36), and dependence for activities of daily living (Barthel and Lawton index). Degree of HV was determined using Manchester scale. Descriptive and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Hence, the prevalence of HV is 39%. Patients with HV are significantly older (64.6 ± 11.7 vs 60.1 ± 12.6 years old). HV prevalence is greater in females (48.1 vs. 28.3%), subjects with flat foot (48.1 vs. 36.1%) or hammer toes (48.2 vs. 30.9%). Moreover, with regard to the presence or not of HV, statistically significant differences were neither noted in the SF-36 questionnaire nor in the Barthel and Lawton Index. For FHSQ and FFI questionnaires, significant differences were observed between patients who presented HV and those who did not. HV is associated with age, gender, flat foot and hammer toes. The SF-36 and Barthel and Lawton questionnaires remained unaltered by the presence of HV. The presence of Hallux valgus was associated with reduced quality of life and increases foot pain, disability and functional limitation.