Study of Orthotic and Exercise Treatments for Hallux Valgus and Their Effects on Lower Limb Movement

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how different conservative treatments, such as orthotics and foot exercises, affect the movement and forces in the feet and lower limbs of young and middle-aged people with hallux valgus. The study focuses on understanding the biomechanical changes caused by these treatments using advanced motion capture, muscle activity monitoring, and ultrasound imaging. The goal is to create a detailed database of biomechanical characteristics to analyze how these interventions impact individuals with hallux valgus. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups for a 12-week intervention. One group wears prefabricated toe orthotics on both feet at night for at least 8 hours daily, with usage monitored by daily photo uploads. The other group follows a structured foot exercise program at least five days per week, supported by written instructions, videos, and daily reporting of exercise time and photos. Both groups receive guidance and monitoring throughout the intervention period. During the study, muscle coordination is measured using surface electromyography, and movement patterns are captured with optical infrared cameras from baseline to 12 weeks. Secondary assessments include measuring the hallux valgus angle, muscle size via ultrasound imaging, and foot pressure distribution using a force plate. Participants are closely monitored for adherence and changes during and after the treatment period to better understand the biomechanical effects of these conservative treatments on hallux valgus.

A Study on the Biomechanical Mechanisms of Orthotic/Physical Training Correction of Hallux Valgus and Its Impact on the Lower Limbs