Effect of Pre-Fabricated Toe Separator in Standing and Walking Balance in Individuals with Bilateral Hallux Valgus

Hallux valgus is deviation of forefoot’s first ray toward midline of the body. Hallux valgus identified with proximal phalanx deviating laterally, first metatarsal head deviating medially with angle greater than 15°.The deformity is complex and affect standing balance and walking balance, causing disturbation to daily activities. Pre-fabricated toe separator is widey used in individuals with hallux valgus in order to prevent progression of deformity. It is cheap, easy to find in market, and simply fit inside shoes. Objective: analyzed the effect of silicone toe separator on individual with bilateral hallux valgus in standing balance and walking balance. Methods: There were 26 participants with bilateral hallux valgus joined the study, they were asked to stand and walk on a footscan. RSscan Footscan® measurement system was used to record and analyze standing and walking. Pressure and force distribution of foot without and with toe separator were analyzed. Then, participant asked to walk for 3 gait cycles without and with silicone toe separator. Center of Pressure Displacement (CoP) to base of support and forefoot balance were collected in this process. Results: Using paired t-test, it was revealed that there are significant differences (P value 0.001) in center of pressure movement, forefoot balance are significant different with p-value 0.036; both without and with silicone toe separator in participants with bilateral hallux valgus conditions. Conclusion: Silicone toe separator improves standing balance and walking balance in individual with bilateral hallux valgu