An Observational Longitudinal Study Investigating the Effectiveness of Adjustable Splint on Individuals with Hallux Valgus

Navaporn Chadchavalpanichaya; Jirawat  Limsapjaroen; Atchara  Suwannakin

Authors

Navaporn Chadchavalpanichaya
Jirawat Limsapjaroen
Atchara Suwannakin

Keywords:

foot deformity, hallux valgus, pain, adjustable splint, orthotic device

Abstract

Objectives: To explore the effectiveness of an adjustable splint to decrease hallux valgus angle and pain at the first metatarso-phalangeal joint. In addition, to discover complications and parti-cipants’ satisfaction

Study design: Prospective cohort analytical study design

Setting: Foot Clinic, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand

Subjects: Thirty-eight patients with hallux valgus deformity at moderate to severe degrees (hallux valgus angle 30°- 50°) were recruited from March to May 2021.

Methods: The participants were asked to use an adjustable splint for 6 hours daily for 12 months and continue their current treatment regimen. They were also asked to record the duration of wearing the splint and complications in a logbook every week. Hallux valgus angle measured from radiography and pain numeric rating scale (pain NRS) were evaluated at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after getting the splint.

Results: Thirty-two participants returned for follow-up at the end of the study. Per protocol and intention to treat, analyses showed a decreased hallux valgus angle and pain at the first metatarso-phalangeal joint with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001). The satisfaction scores with the adjustable splint were high in every domain. No participant had serious complications. The common complication was splint slip (33.3%).

Conclusions: Wearing an adjustable splint for 12 months in patients with moderate to severe degrees of hallux valgus could decrease hallux valgus angle and pain at the first metatarso-phalangeal joint without serious complications.

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