Effects of Foot-Toe Orthoses on Moment and Range of Motion of Knee Joint in Individuals with Hallux Valgus

Abstract

Although various types of hallux valgus (HV) orthoses have been used to manage hallux valgus deformity, few previous studies have determined the biomechanical effects of applying a foot-toe orthosis as a therapeutic intervention for HV deformity on the kinetics and kinematics of the knee joint. Biomechanical variables were collected from 24 patients with HV. A three-dimensional motion capture system and force platforms were used to analyze the kinetic and kinematic variables in HV orthosis conditions during gait. To determine the biomechanical effect of each orthosis for HV on knee kinetic and kinematic values, repeated-measures ANOVA was used. The knee adduction moment was significantly decreased under a hard plastic orthosis (HPO) condition compared to that under a without foot-toe orthosis (WTO) condition (p = 0.004). There was a significant decrease in maximal external rotation of the knee joint in HPO than in WTO at the stance phase during gait (p = 0.021). All of the kinetic and kinematic data showed no significant differences between WTO and soft silicone orthosis conditions (p > 0.05). This study indicates that a stronger foot-toe orthosis, such as HPO, to correct HV deformity has a positive effect on the moment and joint motion occurring in the knee joint during walking. In particular, the application of this type of HV orthosis can reduce knee adduction moments associated with the development and progression of knee OA.

Effects of Metatarsal Foot Orthosis on Biomechanical 3D Ground Reaction Force in Individuals with Morton Foot Syndrome during Gait: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…The skeletal structures of the first MTP and metatarsocuneiform joints and the medial aspect of the capsulo-ligamentous distribution of the forefoot represent the main static stabilizers that allow stability during weight transfers in the stance phase [ 4 ]. The lateral ligaments between the first metatarsal head and the base of the first proximal phalanx offer static and dynamic stability to the first MTP joint [ 22 ]. Among the signs and symptoms of MFS, hypertrophy of the second metatarsal bone causes dysfunction, and metatarsalgia in the medial forefoot and inflammation of the metatarsal joint are common [ 5 ].…”

Causal association between hallux valgus and osteoarthritis: a Mendelian randomization study

“…In the subsequent genu varus deformity, the load-bearing line moves further medially from the medial axis of the knee, leading to an increase in the knee adduction moment (KAM). The growing peak KAM further accelerates the progression of OA in the medial tibiofemoral compartment [32,33]. Thus, HV deformity leads to increased abrasion of the medial knee compartment, negatively impacting knee alignment and promoting the development of knee OA.…”