Comparison of the effects of orthoses on hallux valgus angle and plantar pressure in individuals with hallux valgus.

Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is a condition characterized by the lateral deviation of the first phalanx and medial deviation of the first metatarsal, leading to subluxation of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Various orthotic applications are employed in the treatment of HV deformity. This study aimed to compare the effects of a toe separator (TS) and dynamic orthosis (DO) on hallux valgus angle (HVA), plantar pressure (PP), and quality of life (QoL).

Methods: Thirty individuals aged between 18 and 65 years who had mild to moderate HV deformity were included in our study. Participants were randomized into TS and DO groups. Pretest and post-test evaluations at 4 weeks included goniometric measurement for HVA, PP measurement using the Sensor Medica device, QoL assessment using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society-Hallux MTP-IP Scale and Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire, and numerical evaluation scale for orthosis satisfaction.

Results: No statistically significant changes were observed in HVA measurements (p > 0.05). In the DO group, significant differences were observed in PP assessment for right rearfoot loading (p = 0.048) and total average pressure measurement of the right foot (p = 0.025). QoL assessments were observed significant differences in the DO group compared with the TS group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: After a 4-week period of wearing the TS and DO orthoses, no change in HVA was observed. In the DO group, a more balanced load distribution between the right and left foot (50.2% left, 49.8% right) and a more pronounced effect in reducing deformity-related pain and improving QoL by increasing functionality were noted.