The acute effects of two different rigid taping methods in patients with hallux valgus deformity.

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is one of the most common deformities of the foot, and it causes great difficulties for the patients.

Objective: We aimed to investigate the effects of different rigid taping techniques on HV angle, foot motor performance, balance and walking parameters.

Methods: Twenty-two voluntary individuals (12 males, 10 females) with flexible HV deformities between 18 and 35 years of age were included in the study. All measurements were done before and after placebo, athletic and Mulligan tapings were applied. After a three-day interval, new taping was applied on the same subject. HV angle was measured by goniometer. Foot motor performance (single leg heel rise test), balance (unilateral stance, limits of stability, sensory integration of balance) and temporospatial parameters of gait (step length, stride length, step width, foot angle and cadence) were evaluated.

Results: HV angles were reduced in all taping groups (p< 0.05). The Mulligan taping method was the most effective method in reducing HV angle. Foot motor performance was not affected by any type of taping (p> 0.05). Athletic taping increased step length and step width but reduced foot angle and cadence. The Mulligan taping increased cadence and reduced foot angle (p< 0.01). Both taping methods did not affect the postural stability and fall risk (p> 0.05). Stability limits were increased in Mulligan taping group (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: It can be concluded that Mulligan taping method may be an alternative treatment method for HV rehabilitation especially as it increased the limits of stability and maintaining the balance. Mulligan method is more effective than athletic taping in terms of reducing instant HV angle.