Evaluation of occurrence of hallux valgus based on images from podoscope in children

Inroduction and aim of the study. Hallux valgus is a deformity where there is a lateral deviation of the proximal phalanx of the big toe. The objective of the study was investigation of the occurrence of hallux valgus based on the image from a podoscope in children, examination of the effect of ill-fitted footwear on the development of this complaint. The study covered 184 children, aged 7-13. The children were examined in their underwear, without shoes and socks. Body weight and body height was measured. The image of the feet on a podoscope was done at full load. The hallux valgus angle α, the Clarke’s angle and the Wejsflog’s index were calculated. The software calculated the correct size of the footwear which should be worn by the children. This size was compared with the size of the shoes which a child had during the examination. Results. The problem of hallux valgus affects 26% of the children. Hallux valgus more frequently concerned the left foot. In 8% of cases hallux valgus concerned both feet. Conclusions. Hallux valgus in the examined group more often concerned girls than boys. The hallux valgus angle α increased with age. Children who had a normal hallux valgus angle α had higher values of the Clarke’s angle. In the group