The Comparison of Hallux Valgus Angles between Plain Radiography and Footprint Test

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To find out whether the footprint test was significant as a screening test in hallux valgus (HV) patients. METHOD: The standing AP radiography and the static footprint were performed on 26 general patients, 52 feet total, ranging in age from 15~70 years. As markers of the footprint test, the angles that we want to measure were designated as H and H' angles. RESULTS: The HV angle on plain radiography correlated significantly to the H angle of the footprint test (r=0.75), and presented as HV angle=1.012H+2.723. The HV angle on plain radiography inversely correlated significantly to the H' angle (r=-0.56) and presented as HV angle=-0.731H' +90.953. CONCLUSION: The footprint test could be used as a screening test for hallux valgus prior to plain radiography. HV angle in standing AP radiograph could be predicted by measuring the H and H' angle on the static footprint. Supplement studies on variable factors such as age, gender, etc. are required for further study.