Relationship Between Hallux Valgus and Pes Planus: Real or Fiction?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Podiatry
• Radiology

Background:

• Hallux valgus is a common, painful big toe deformity.
• Its etiology is multifactorial, with structural foot disorders implicated.
• The relationship between hallux valgus and pes planus requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between hallux valgus and pes planus in adult males.
• To quantify radiographic parameters in patients with and without hallux valgus.

Main Methods:

• Radiographic analysis of 213 adult males (54 with hallux valgus, 159 controls).
• Measurements included hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), talonavicular coverage angle, Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch angle, and lateral talocalcaneal angle.
• Statistical analysis to compare groups and assess correlations.

Main Results:

• No significant difference in talonavicular and Meary's angles between groups.
• Calcaneal pitch angle was significantly lower in the hallux valgus group.
• Calcaneal pitch angle and lateral talocalcaneal angle negatively correlated with HVA and IMA.

Conclusions:

• Pes planus is strongly correlated with hallux valgus deformity in adult males.
• Radiographic findings suggest altered foot biomechanics in hallux valgus.
• Larger cohort studies are recommended to confirm these findings.