Clinical improvement in functional hallux limitus using a cut-out orthosis

2014 ◽  
Vol 40 (2) ◽  
pp. 215-223 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ricardo Becerro de Bengoa Vallejo ◽  
Rubén Sanchez Gómez ◽  
Marta Elena Losa Iglesias

Background: Functional hallux limitus (FHL) has been implicated in the development of metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis. Objectives: To determine whether cut-out orthosis treatment increases plantarflexion of the first metatarsal by increasing its declination angle. Study design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: A total of 46 female volunteers with an average age of 25.66 ± 5.70 years (range: 19–42 years) and FHL participated in the study. We assessed the degrees of movement of the first metatarsal and proximal phalanx bones at the first metatarsophalangeal joint without and while wearing the cut-out orthosis using the 3Space Fastrak® via sensors. Results: The movement of the plantarflexión declination angle of the first metatarsal bone was higher using the orthosis 29.84° ± 5.98° versus without orthosis 27.69° ± 5.91° (p < 0.031°). Use of sandals may have minimized the magnitude of movement changes associated with orthosis versus non-orthosis use. Conclusion: The cut-out orthosis demonstrated a beneficial effect on non-fixed first metatarsophalangeal and metatarsal cuneiform joints affected by FHL, significantly increasing the declination of the metatarsal angle. Furthermore, use of the cut-out orthosis significantly reduced adduction movement of the first metatarsal bone in the transverse plane. Clinical relevance The cut-out orthosis demonstrated a beneficial effect on non-fixed first metatarsophalangeal and metatarsal cuneiform joints affected by FHL, significantly increasing the declination of the metatarsal angle. Furthermore, use of the cut-out orthosis significantly reduced adduction movement of the first metatarsal bone in the transverse plane.

2007 ◽  
Vol 97 (3) ◽  
pp. 175-188 ◽  
Author(s):  
Julie Taranto ◽  
Michael J. Taranto ◽  
Alan R. Bryant ◽  
Kevin P. Singer

Background: Hallux abducto valgus and hallux limitus are two commonly encountered foot deformities causing altered structure and function of the first metatarsophalangeal joint and subsequent compensatory mechanisms. This study was undertaken to determine the relationships between these two deformities and transverse plane position of the foot, or angle of gait, and several radiographic angular and linear parameters with established reliability. Methods: A convenience sample of 23 subjects with hallux abducto valgus, 22 subjects with hallux limitus, and 20 control subjects was used. Radiographic parameters were standardized weightbearing views and included lateral stressed dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, composite, dorsoplantar, and lateral views. Angle of gait was obtained from powdered footprints recorded on paper. Two left and two right footprints identified on each trial were used to calculate angle of gait. Results: The findings of the study suggest that an association between angle of gait and the presence of hallux abducto valgus or hallux limitus does not exist. Possible explanations may relate to the large variability of normal angle of gait, the need to identify factors extrinsic to the foot capable of affecting transverse plane orientation of the foot, and the addition of information relating to symptoms. Conclusions: In this study, the presence of hallux abducto valgus or hallux limitus did not correspond to an association with a particular angle of gait. Length and elevation of the first metatarsal were associated in subjects with hallux abducto valgus and hallux limitus. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 97(3): 175–188, 2007)


2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (2) ◽  
pp. 247301142110085
Author(s):  
Christopher Traynor ◽  
James Jastifer

Background: Instability of the first-tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint has been proposed as a cause of hallux valgus. Although there is literature demonstrating how first-TMT arthrodesis affects hallux valgus, there is little published on how correction of hallux valgus affects the first-TMT joint alignment. The purpose of this study was to determine if correction of hallux valgus impacts the first-TMT alignment and congruency. Improvement in alignment would provide evidence that hallux valgus contributes to first-TMT instability. Our hypothesis was that correcting hallux valgus angle (HVA) would have no effect on the first-TMT alignment and congruency. Methods: Radiographs of patients who underwent first-MTP joint arthrodesis for hallux valgus were retrospectively reviewed. The HVA, 1-2 intermetatarsal angle (IMA), first metatarsal–medial cuneiform angle (1MCA), medial cuneiform–first metatarsal angle (MC1A), relative cuneiform slope (RCS), and distal medial cuneiform angle (DMCA) were measured and recorded for all patients preoperatively and postoperatively. Results: Of the 76 feet that met inclusion criteria, radiographic improvements were noted in HVA (23.6 degrees, P < .0001), 1-2 IMA (6.2 degrees, P < .0001), 1MCA (6.4 degrees, P < .0001), MC1A (6.5 degrees, P < .0001), and RCS (3.3 degrees, P = .001) comparing preoperative and postoperative radiographs. There was no difference noted with DMCA measurements (0.5 degrees, P = .53). Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the radiographic alignment and subluxation of the first-TMT joint will reduce with isolated treatment of the first-MTP joint. Evidence suggests that change in the HVA can affect radiographic alignment and subluxation of the first-TMT joint. Level of Evidence: Level IV, retrospective case series.


2017 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 2473011417S0001
Author(s):  
Hongjoon Choi ◽  
Daewook Kim ◽  
Yeong Hun Kang ◽  
Jong Ho Park

Category: Midfoot/Forefoot Introduction/Purpose: Even though stiffness of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (1MTP) is not a common complication, reduced dorsiflexion range of motion at the 1MTP after surgery for hallux valgus was reported as a complication. However, few clinical studies have investigated this issue and no clinical resolution has been reached thus far. We hypothesized that tightness of the gastrocnemius-plantar aponeurosis complex is one of the factors that limits the extension of 1MTP after hallux valgus surgery. Thus, an additional procedure of the plantar aponeurosis release during hallux valgus surgery may improve the range of extension at 1MTP. The purpose of this study was to test the efficacy of plantar aponeurosis release in improving the range of extension when a limitation is detected after hallux valgus surgery. Methods: Thirteen patients (17 feet) with limited 1MTP extension after hallux valgus surgery, underwent an additional procedure of plantar aponeurosis release. The inclusion criterion was limitation of 1MTP extension showed more than 15 degrees difference between knee extension and flexion position, measured after completing all procedures of the hallux valgus surgery. The passive range of 1MTP extension was evaluated by a goniometer while the first metatarsal head was supported with a palm, assuming a weightbearing position with knee extension and flexion, after completing all procedures of the hallux valgus surgery (Barouk test). A silfverskiold test was performed in all cases preoperatively. The weightbearing dorsoplantar and lateral radiographs of the foot were performed to measure the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, distal metatarsal articular angle, and the talo-first metatarsal angle. Results: The mean range of 1MTP extension significantly improved from 2.53 degrees to 40.88 degrees in the knee extension position (p<0.0000). The mean range of the 1MTP extension also improved from 18.24 degrees to 43.24 degrees in the knee flexion position. The silfverskiold test was positive in 12 cases. In all patients, congruence of 1MTP was corrected. There were no surgery-related complications such as plantar aponeurosis rupture or nerve injury. Conclusion: Our study supports tightness of the gastrocnemius-plantar aponeurosis complex is one of the factors that limit the extension of 1MTP after hallux valgus surgery. Hence, plantar aponeurosis release can be considered as an effective additional procedure to improve the range of 1MTP extension when a limitation is presented after hallux valgus surgery.


2014 ◽  
Vol 104 (1) ◽  
pp. 85-89 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vanessa Froehlich ◽  
Markus Wuenschel

Hallux varus is defined as a medial deviation of the phalanx at the first metatarsophalangeal joint and can be congenital or acquired. Brachymetatarsia is defined as shortening of the metatarsal bones. A combination of hallux varus and brachymetatarsia is rare. A 15-year-old girl presented to our outpatient clinic complaining of problems with her feet. A distinctive hallux varus was present bilaterally combined with a brachymetatarsia of the first metatarsals. The patient reported discomfort. She was restricted in her activities and had severe psychological strain owing to the deformity. We decided on surgery. First, a Pennig MiniFixator for callus distraction of the first metatarsal bone was applied. Owing to the increased plantar subluxation of the phalanx during distraction, an extension of the external fixator was administered so that the hallux could be repositioned to a physiologically satisfying position. After sufficient callus formation, the hardware was removed 14 weeks after surgery. Thereafter, the phalanx moved back to the subluxed position. Finally, an arthrodesis of the first metatarsophalangeal joint was performed with a locking plate. Surgery should not be made only for cosmesis and associated psychological aspects; but, discomfort should be the deciding factor. The postoperative clinical and cosmetic results in our case were good, and the patient was quite satisfied. There was no longer any preoperative discomfort and pain.


2012 ◽  
Vol 102 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-4 ◽  
Author(s):  
Matthew DeMore ◽  
Erigena Baze ◽  
Anthony LaLama ◽  
Patrick Branagan ◽  
Michael Bowen ◽  
...  

Background: Hallux limitus/rigidus is a painful arthritic condition affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint that can be treated by implant arthroplasty, which, ultimately, may cause loss of the anatomical insertion points of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle. Preparation of the base involves resection of bone, thus compromising the insertion of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle. Methods: We dissected 54 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens and quantitatively measured the distalmost insertion point of the medial and lateral heads of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle. These measurements were performed for both heads. The measurements were performed three times by three separate examiners. In addition, taking into consideration the anatomical construct of the articular surface of the base of the proximal phalanx of the hallux, another measurement was performed to note the concavity using 44 of the specimens. Again, these measurements were performed three times by three separate investigators. Results: The mean length from the base of the proximal phalanx to the distalmost insertion of the medial and lateral heads of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle was found to be 7 mm. Conclusions: This study provides precise anatomical data that can be used by foot and ankle surgeons when considering the use of implant arthroplasty for the treatment of hallux limitus/rigidus and the ability to maintain the insertion point of the flexor hallucis brevis muscle. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 102 (1):1-4, 2012)


1997 ◽  
Vol 18 (3) ◽  
pp. 132-137 ◽  
Author(s):  
Craig Nevin

The kinematics of the first metatarsophalangeal joint were investigated in five embalmed cadaver feet (three normal, one hallux valgus, one hallux rigidus). Sagittal displacements of the first metatarsal relative to the proximal phalanx were measured during first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiplantarflexion; first in intact cadavers, then with an intact capsule sans extracapsular soft tissues (hallux amputated at the first metatarsal cuneiform joint), and finally with a double-stem silicone prosthesis inserted. In the intact cadaver, the base of the metatarsal is raised by FMTP dorsiflexion in a manner similar to a cam. However, this effect ceased when the extracapsular soft tissues were removed. Silicone arthroplasty did not restore cam function.


2004 ◽  
Vol 94 (1) ◽  
pp. 22-30 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan R. Bryant ◽  
Paul Tinley ◽  
Joan H. Cole

The effects of the Youngswick osteotomy on plantar peak pressure distribution in the forefoot are presented for 17 patients (23 feet) with mild-to-moderate hallux limitus deformity and 23 control subjects (23 feet). During 2 years of follow-up, the operation produced a significant increase in the range of dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint in these patients, reaching near-normal values. Preoperative and postoperative measurements, using a pressure-distribution measurement system, show that peak pressure beneath the hallux and the first metatarsal head remained unchanged. However, peak pressure was significantly increased beneath the second metatarsal head and decreased beneath the fifth metatarsal head. These findings suggest that the foot functioned in a less inverted manner postoperatively. Compared with normal feet, hallux limitus feet demonstrated significantly higher peak pressure beneath the fourth metatarsal head preoperatively and postoperatively. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 94(1): 22-30, 2004)


2018 ◽  
Vol 108 (3) ◽  
pp. 200-204 ◽  
Author(s):  
Patrick J. Sanchez ◽  
John F. Grady ◽  
Robin C. Lenz ◽  
Sarah J. Park ◽  
Jake G. Ruff

Background: Hallux limitus (HL) is the second-most common pathology associated with the first metatarsophalangeal joint. A common etiology believed to be associated with HL is metatarsus primus elevatus (MPE), although causation has been unsubstantiated by evidence. Historically, correction of MPE is surgically addressed with an osteotomy. However, some believe MPE is a secondary manifestation of HL due to retrograde pressure and lack of dorsiflexion at the first metatarsophalangeal joint. This study sought to determine whether MPE resolves spontaneously after first metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty and reinstitution of normal joint dorsiflexion. Methods: Twenty-seven weightbearing lateral radiographs from patients with HL were reviewed before and after nonimplant first metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty. Radiographs were taken preoperatively and at postoperative visits 1 (mean, 2 weeks) and 2 (mean, 10 weeks). Measurements included first to second metatarsal elevation, Seiberg Index, first to fifth metatarsal distance, sagittal plane first to second metatarsal angle, Meary's angle, metatarsal declination angle, and hallux equinus angle. Results: Statistically significant improvement was seen at both postoperative visits in all of the previously mentioned measurements except first to fifth metatarsal distance, which was reduced but was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Metatarsus primus elevatus was reduced significantly after first metatarsophalangeal joint arthroplasty. Resolution occurred rapidly and was maintained at the final postoperative visit. This could be due to MPE being a manifestation of HL and not a cause. Based on the results of this study, osteotomies may be unnecessary to surgically address MPE because it can spontaneously correct after reinstitution of first metatarsophalangeal joint motion.


2006 ◽  
Vol 96 (5) ◽  
pp. 428-436 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bart Van Gheluwe ◽  
Howard J. Dananberg ◽  
Friso Hagman ◽  
Kerstin Vanstaen

The effects of hallux limitus on plantar foot pressure and foot kinematics have received limited attention in the literature. Therefore, a study was conducted to assess the effects of limited first metatarsophalangeal joint mobility on plantar foot pressure. It was equally important to identify detection criteria based on plantar pressures and metatarsophalangeal joint kinematics, enabling differentiation between subjects affected by hallux limitus and people with normal hallux function. To further our understanding of the relation between midtarsal collapse and hallux limitus, kinematic variables relating to midtarsal pronation were also included in the study. Two populations of 19 subjects each, one with hallux limitus and the other free of functional abnormalities, were asked to walk at their preferred speed while plantar foot pressures were recorded along with three-dimensional foot kinematics. The presence of hallux limitus, structural or functional, caused peak plantar pressure under the hallux to build up significantly more and at a faster rate than under the first metatarsal head. Additional discriminators for hallux limitus were peak dorsiflexion of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, time to this peak value, peak pressure ratios of the first metatarsal head and the more lateral metatarsal heads, and time to maximal pressure under the fourth and fifth metatarsal heads. Finally, in approximately 20% of the subjects, with and without hallux limitus, midtarsal pronation occurred after heel lift, validating the claim that retrograde midtarsal pronation does occur. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 96(5): 428–436, 2006)


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