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Risk of Fall in Patients with Functional Hallux Limitus: A Case-Control Study Using an Inertial Measurement Unit
Jorge Posada-Ordax1, Marta Elena Losa-Iglesias2, Ricardo Becerro-de-Bengoa-Vallejo3,4
1Departamento de Enfermería y Fisioterapia, Universidad de León, Av de Astorga s/n, 24401 Ponferrada, León, Spain.
Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)
|October 29, 2025
Summary
Asymptomatic functional hallux limitus (FHL) does not increase fall risk in older adults. This study found no significant differences in mobility, balance, or fear of falling between those with FHL and healthy controls.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Functional hallux limitus (FHL) is a condition characterized by restricted motion in the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
- This limitation during walking may potentially affect stability and increase fall risk, particularly in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare fall risk factors between older adults with asymptomatic functional hallux limitus and healthy controls.
- To investigate the impact of asymptomatic FHL on mobility, postural stability, and fear of falling.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 40 participants over 65 years old (20 with asymptomatic FHL, 20 healthy controls).
- Assessments included the Timed Up and Go Test, Berg Balance Scale, Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and spatiotemporal gait analysis using an inertial measurement unit (IMU).
Main Results:
- No statistically significant differences were observed between the FHL group and controls for the Timed Up and Go Test (p = 0.694), Berg Balance Scale (p = 0.903), or FES-I (p = 0.913).
- Spatiotemporal gait parameters also showed no significant group differences.
- Asymptomatic FHL did not significantly impact measured mobility, stability, or fear of falling.
Conclusions:
- Asymptomatic functional hallux limitus does not appear to be a significant determinant of fall risk in older adults under controlled conditions.
- Further research is warranted in less controlled environments or in individuals experiencing painful FHL.
