Effect of Hallux Valgus Correction with Kinesiology Taping on Hindfoot Position. Pilot Study

BACKGROUND

Hallux valgus is the most common deformity of the forefoot. It has a multifactorial aetiology, with hindfoot valgus considered one of its causes. The aim of this study was to evaluate hindfoot position and loading pattern after a treatment of Kinesiology Taping (KT) for the mechanical correction of hallux valgus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study involved 25 feet with hallux valgus deformity and hindfoot valgus. The hallux valgus angle (HVA) and hindfoot angle were assessed with a 3D scanner. Hindfoot loading pattern was examined with a baropodometric platform while standing and during gait. Measurements were taken on the following three occasions: before and immediately after KT placement as well as after a month of taping.

RESULTS

The KT treatment had a significant influence on the hindfoot angle (p<0.001) and HVA (p<0.001) measured while standing and on lateral heel loading in dynamic conditions during gait (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

1. KT decreased HVA and improved hindfoot position while standing in the pilot study participants. 2. KT exerted a corrective influence on the foot loading pattern in patients with hallux valgus and hindfoot pronation. 3. The foot position correction and normalisation of foot loading achieved in the pilot study provide a basis for further research on KT effectiveness in patients with hallux valgus and hindfoot pronation.

The short-term effectiveness of Kinesiology Taping on foot biomechanics in patients with hallux valgus

BACKGROUND

Hallux valgus, one of the most common foot disorders, contributes to the formation of pain and changes foot biomechanics.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of Kinesiology Taping (KT) on foot loading during gait in patients with hallux valgus.

METHODS

Forty feet with hallux valgus were examined. Patients wore the KT for a month and the parameters of the foot during gait on a baropodometric platform were measured three times: before taping, immediately after application of taping and after one month's use.

RESULTS

The taping had a statistically significant effect on dynamic foot measurements. The maximum and mean foot load (p< 0.001), foot surface (p< 0.001), ratio of forefoot to hindfoot load (p< 0.01) and the proportions of the lateral and medial foot loading (p< 0.05) all changed. During gait cycle, taping significantly increased the load and surface at the first metatarsal head (p< 0.001) while there was a decrease around the second to fifth (p< 0.001) metatarsal heads.

CONCLUSIONS

Using KT to correct a hallux valgus is a procedure that has an impact on the dynamic parameters of the foot during gait. The use of this method could become an alternative to surgical treatment for those patients, who have any contraindication for surgery.

The Influence of Short-Term Kinesiology Taping on Foot Anthropometry and Pain in Patients Suffering from Hallux Valgus

Background and Objectives: Hallux valgus, one of the most common foot disorders, contributes to the formation of pain, changes foot proportions and hinders everyday functioning. In this study we wanted to verify if kinesiology taping improves hallux valgus and affects the position as well as reducing pain. Materials and Methods: Forty feet with hallux valgus were examined and the parameters were measured at three stages: before the kinesiology taping was applied, just after its application and after a month of use. Measurements were taken with a 3D scanner and a baropodometric platform. Results: When taping was applied, the hallux valgus angle decreased statistically significantly compared with pre-taping (p < 0.01). The use of taping for a month significantly reduced this angle compared with pre-taping (p < 0.05). Parameters such as foot length, the surface of the hindfoot and forefoot and hindfoot pressure on the ground changed. A change in the hallux position due to the taping produced significant changes in the perception of pain (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Kinesiology taping acts on the hallux valgus and foot position mechanically. This makes kinesiology taping an effective method of conservative treatment for patients who are not qualified for surgery.