Postural stability impairment in patients with bilateral hallux valgus: A case-control study using a stabilometer

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Geriatric Medicine
• Orthopedics

Background:

• Hallux valgus (HV) is recognized as a risk factor for falls in the elderly.
• The precise relationship between HV and fall risk requires further elucidation.
• Postural stability in individuals with bilateral HV has not been thoroughly investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess and compare the postural stability of patients with bilateral hallux valgus (HV) against a control group.
• To investigate the impact of HV on gait parameters and balance.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 40 female participants, divided into an HV group and a control (C) group (20 each).
• Evaluations included the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Falls Efficacy Scale (FES).
• Gait analysis measured track length (LNG), velocity (VEL), enveloped area (ENV), and root mean square area (RMS).

Main Results:

• The HV group exhibited significantly higher TUG and FES scores, indicating reduced mobility and increased fall concern.
• Lower BBS scores in the HV group suggest poorer balance.
• Gait analysis revealed significantly longer track length, higher velocity, and wider enveloped and root mean square areas in the HV group.

Conclusions:

• Patients with hallux valgus display compromised walking mobility.
• Balance deficits are evident in individuals with hallux valgus.
• Bilateral hallux valgus is associated with impaired postural stability, potentially increasing fall risk in older adults.