A New Clinical Test to Evaluate Intrinsic Foot Muscle Function.

Area of Science:

• Podiatry
• Orthopedics
• Diagnostic Test Development

Background:

• Intrinsic foot muscle weakness is linked to various forefoot conditions.
• The paper grip test is the standard measure for intrinsic foot muscle strength.
• A novel

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of the "knuckle test" for assessing intrinsic foot muscle function.
• To compare the prevalence of negative knuckle test results with intrinsic muscle weakness, using the paper grip test as a benchmark.
• To explore the association between the knuckle test, paper grip test, and toe deformities.

Main Methods:

• Ninety-eight patients were assessed using both the knuckle test and the paper grip test.
• Patients were categorized based on the presence or absence of toe deformities.
• Data were analyzed to compare outcomes between positive and negative knuckle test results.

Main Results:

• A negative knuckle test result was found to be significantly associated with an inability to perform the paper grip test (P < .05).

Conclusions:

• The knuckle test is a valid indicator of intrinsic foot muscle weakness, supported by its significant association with the paper grip test.
• The knuckle test presents a potentially rapid, simple, and cost-effective clinical method for detecting intrinsic foot muscle weakness.