The influence of hallux valgus severity on postural stability and risk of fall: a cross-sectional study design

Hallux valgus (HV) is a common first-ray foot disease that causes changes in joint mechanics, abnormal loading patterns, and structural imbalances within the foot, leading to pain, functional impairment, and changes in gait and posture.

The current study was designed to examine postural stability, risk of falls, and pain in adults with mild, moderate, and severe hallux valgus and to compare the results among these groups.

Eighty female subjects took-part in this study. They were selected from the Deraya University, with ages ranging from 20 to 40 years. All procedures were clearly explained to each participant before beginning the study. The subjects were distributed into four equal groups (20 subjects each) based on the severity of hallux valgus (HV): Group A: control group, Group B: Mild HV, Group C: Moderate HV, Group D: Severe HV. All subjects were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Manchester Scale, a Universal Goniometer, and the Biodex Balance System. These tools were employed to evaluate pain intensity, severity of the deformity, postural stability, and risk of fall.

No significance difference was detected among groups concerning age, weight, height, Body mass index (p >0.05). A significant increase in antro-posterior stability index, mediolateral stability index, static and dynamic overall stability index, sway velocity index open eyes, sway velocity index closed eyes and VAS was observed in severe HV compared with control subjects and other study groups (p < 0.001).

Hallux valgus has a detrimental impact on postural stability and should be recognized as a significant as well as independent risk factor for falls. In addition to balance impairment, hallux valgus is also associated with increased foot pain.