Affiliations: [a] Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, School of Health, Çankırı Karatekin University, Çankırı, Turkey | [b] Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Özge Çınar-Medeni, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, School of Health, Çankırı Karatekin University, 18200 Çankırı, Turkey. Tel.: +90 (376) 213 17 02; E-mail:ozgecinar@gmail.com
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Single-limb postural stability is a key component of
lower extremity functional status. Factors affecting postural stability
should be well defined to prevent injuries. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of
the hallux valgus angle on postural stability in asymptomatic subjects. METHODS: A total of 19 subjects were included in the study. The
hallux valgus angle and postural stability were assessed. Participants were
assigned to two groups according to whether the hallux valgus angle was
pathological or not. A hallux valgus angle greater than 15 degrees was
accepted as pathological. The relationship between the hallux valgus angle
and postural stability, and the differences in postural stability scores
between the two groups were analyzed. Postural stability was assessed with a
stabilometer. The test was performed with the eyes open. RESULTS: We found a significant correlation between the hallux
valgus angle and mediolateral and overall stability index (r= 0.484, p= 0.036;
r = 0.463, p= 0.046 respectively). Subjects with a pathological mild hallux
valgus angle had greater stability index scores than normal subjects
(p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A mild hallux valgus angle has negative effects on
postural stability as a forefoot deformity. This deformity should be taken
into account for injury prevention strategies in pain-free younger adults.
