Relationship between General Joint Laxity and Foot Structure in Japanese Young Adult Women

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to clarify the relationship between general joint laxity (GJL) and foot structure in Japanese young adult women. Methods: Subjects were 157 young adult women (mean age 20.5 ±1.2 years). GJLwas evaluated using Beighton Hypermobility Score, and subjects were categorized in GJL and non-GJL group. For foot structure in dominant and non-dominant leg, foot length, foot width, naviculare height as an inner longitudinal arch, spread foot angle as a forefoot transverse arch, hallux valgus angle, and digitus quintus varus angle were measured. Results: Spread foot angle in non-dominant leg in GJL group was significantly greater than non-GJL group. In all subjects, spread foot angle in dominant and non-dominant leg was significant positively correlated with hallux valgus angle and digitus quintus varus angle. Discussion: Relation with GJL and change of foot structure is partial. However, a decline of forefoot transverse arch may participate in hallux valgus angle and digitus quintus varus angle. Conclusion: This study indicates that GJL may be partially related with a decline of forefoot transverse arch in Japanese young adult women.