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

Abstract

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is an important risk factor for falls (in older people); however, the detailed relationship is less understood. We aimed to evaluate postural stability in bilateral HV patients.

Methods: Two groups of 20 female patients-an HV group and a C (i.e., non-HV) group-participated in this study. Evaluations were made using the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES), track length (LNG), velocity (VEL), enveloped area (ENV), and root mean square area (RMS).

Results: TUG and FES scores were significantly higher and BBS scores were lower in the HV group than in the C group. LNG was significantly longer, VEL was higher, and ENV and RMS were wider in the HV group than in the C group.

Conclusions: The HV group exhibited impaired walking mobility, balance, and postural stability.

Keywords: Hallux valgus; Postural stability; Stabilometry.