Correction effects of peroneus longus contraction on hallux valgus radiographic parameters

Background

Hypermobility of the first tarsometatarsal joint plays an important role in hallux valgus pathogenesis. The peroneus longus is recognized as a dynamic stabilizer of the first tarsometatarsal joint. However, the association between the peroneus longus function and the hallux valgus deformity remains unknown. This study aimed to determine the effect of peroneus longus contraction induced by electrical muscle stimulation on the correction of hallux valgus radiographic parameters in patients with hallux valgus.

Methods

Thirty-five patients with hallux valgus (47 feet; 2 men, 33 women; mean age 64.9 years) were included. Non-weight-bearing dorsoplantar radiographs of the foot were obtained with and without electrical muscle stimulation of the peroneus longus. Radiographic parameters of hallux valgus deformities, including the hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, first metatarsal protrusion distance, and distance between the first and second metatarsal bases, were measured and compared between the two conditions.

Results

All hallux valgus radiographic parameters were significantly improved by contraction of the peroneus longus. The median hallux valgus angle decreased by 13.2°. Fewer changes in the hallux valgus angle were identified in patients with severe deformity and geriatric patients.

Conclusions

Although the peroneus longus muscle has received little attention in the management of hallux valgus, our findings suggest that it has the potential to be a novel conservative approach for treating mild-to-moderate hallux valgus.