Relationship between Hallux Valgus Severity and 3D Ground Reaction Force in Individuals with Hallux Valgus Deformity during Gait

PURPOSE: This study examined the relationship between the severity of a hallux valgus (HV) deformity and the kinetic three-dimensional ground reaction force (GRF) through a motion analysis system with force platforms in individuals with a HV deformity during normal speed walking. METHODS: The participants were 36 adults with a HV deformity. The participants were asked to walk on a 6 m walkway with 40 infrared reflective markers attached to their pelvic and lower extremities. A camera capture system and two force platforms were used to collect kinetic data during gait. A Vicon Nexus and Visual3D motion analysis software were used to calculate the kinetic GRF data. RESULTS: This research showed that the anterior maximal force that occurred in the terminal stance phase during gait had a negative correlation with the HV angle (r = -.762, p < .01). In addition, the HV angle showed a low negative correlation with the second vertical maximal force (r = .346, p < .05) and a moderate positive correlation with the late medial maximal force (r = .641, p < .01). CONCLUSION: A more severe HV deformity results in greater abnormal translation of the plantar pressure and a significantly reduced pressure force under the first metatarsophalangeal joint.