Evaluating the Effectiveness of Treatments on Gait Biomechanics in Patients With Hammertoe Deformities
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Summary
This study looks at how hammertoe deformities affect foot pressure distribution and whether proper treatment can improve quality of life.
Description
Hammertoe deformities often lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty with walking. People affected by these deformities are also at a higher risk for developing pressure-related ulcers on their feet. It is essential for clinicians to be aware of this risk and to assess the degree of plantar pressure reduction following both conservative and surgical treatments, as alleviating this pressure may help prevent the development of foot ulcers. Individuals diagnosed with hammertoes will participate in two data collection sessions-one visit before the intervention begins (pre-intervention) and another…
Eligibility
- Age range
- Not specified
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Confirmed distal symmetric sensory neuropathy. * MTPJ hyperextension deformity. * Claw or hammer toe deformity in toes. Exclusion Criteria: * Non-hammertoe foot deformities affecting metatarsal head pressure. * Limited joint mobility, lower-limb amputation, or Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy. * Peripheral vascular disease * Non-diabetic neuropathies * Significant lower-limb musculoskeletal issues * Rheumatoid arthritis * Current foot ulcer or edema * Inability to walk unaided * MRI contraindications * Morton's neuroma * History of foot surgery
Interventions
- OtherConservative
Patients with hammertoe deformities will undergo conservative treatments, including wearing proper shoes, insoles, and custom orthotics.
- ProcedureSurgical
Patients with hammertoe deformities will undergo surgical treatments.
Location
- University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyHarlingen, Texas