Gait studies of normal and hallux valgus affected individuals

Abstract

This study investigated the gait patterns of volunteers affected by hallux valgus and compares the results with volunteers free from this or any other foot related deformity. The reason for this study was to analyze the differences in gait patterns from a strictly biomechanical perspective by studying the various forces acting on a foot during locomotion and to determine the factors which play a major role in the gait of hallux valgus affected people. The study also aims to determine the impact of this deformity on the gait patterns of affected individuals, the chances of injury, potential for adverse impact of this deformity as the person gets older and available remedial solutions. The primary action studied was a normal walk executed by the volunteers at a normal walking speed. The various forces generated by the volunteers were measured using a Kistler’s force platform and the data generated was stored using a data acquisition board (DAQ). Further analysis of the graphs obtained was done using the Bioware software. The ground reaction forces, center of pressure, co-efficient of friction were the parameters which were
analyzed and compared for both sets of individuals. The result of the investigation was that gait of hallux valgus individual gets altered, with a change in the center of pressure, ground reaction forces and co-efficient of friction as compared to normal healthy subject. The affected
individuals walk was found to be less balanced and jerky. The people who have this deformity are most prone to ankle and knee injuries with increased risk of falling as the person gets older and the deformity is aggravated. The treatments methods available, their impact and after-effects
are also considered. Only surgery is a long term solution and the diagnosis and treatment of the deformity requires a detailed study into every individual case.