Effect of Hallux Valgus on physical function of the elderly

Abstract

Hallux valgus is a degenerative joint disease that was much seen in middle and aged female. Sometime it accompanies by foot pain and affect to the activities of daily living. Therefore, hallux valgus is thought to be one of the reasons of locomotive syndrome and frail. However, the influence of hallux valgus on physical function of the elderly is not clear. Therefore, we conducted field test for the elderly and measured three dimensional foot shapes, locomotive syndrome risk test, toe-gap force, and self reported Hallux valgus. As the result, first and fifth digit angles of hallux valgus group was significantly larger that of non-hallux valgus group. On the other hand, no significant differences were not seen in locomotive syndrome risk test and toe-gap force. The result of comparison analysis showed no significant correlation between digit angle and physical function indices. The result suggests progression of hallux valgus may not influence physical function directly among healthy elderly.