Factors affecting Postural Stability in Patients with Hallux Valgus: Influence of Pain and Deformity.

Abstract

Background: Hallux valgus is associated with impaired postural stability and increased fall risk; however, the influence of pain on postural stability remains unclear.

Purpose: This study aimed to examine factors affecting postural stability in patients with hallux valgus, with particular focus on pain intensity and deformity severity.

Study design: Retrospective observational study.

Methods: Forty-seven female patients who underwent hallux valgus surgery between 2014 and 2024 were evaluated preoperatively. Postural stability was assessed using a stabilometric platform, and total track length was defined as the primary outcome. Evaluated variables included age, body mass index, visual analog scale pain score, first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion, hallux valgus angle, and foot alignment parameters. Simple and multiple regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with total track length.

Results: Simple regression analysis demonstrated significant associations between total track length and age, visual analog scale pain score, and hallux valgus angle. Multiple regression analysis revealed that visual analog scale pain score (β = 0.43, p = 0.001) and hallux valgus angle (β = 0.32, p = 0.016) were independent predictors of total track length, indicating that higher pain intensity and more severe deformity contributed to increased postural sway.

Conclusion: Pain intensity and deformity severity independently affect postural stability in patients with hallux valgus. These findings suggest that both pain control and correction of deformity may be important for improving postural stability in this population.