The Determination of Floating Toes and the Reliability of its Assessment

[Purpose] We investigated the determination method of floating toes, including during movement, and the reliability of the assessment. [Subjects] The subjects were 130 normally healthy adults, 58 males and 72 females. [Method] From images of the sole of the foot taken with a pedoscope, we determined the reliability of the floating toe score, and the reliability of the groupings made on the basis of the floating toe score using coefficients. We also analyzed the change in toe contact condition during movement and reconsidered the groupings. [Results] The interrater reliabilities of the floating toe score and groupings, as well as the intra-rater reliability of the floating toe score showed high rates of agreement. Also, over half the cases that were classified as floating toes at rest were in perfect contact with the ground during movement. [Conclusion] We confirmed the reliabilities of the determination method and assessment of floating toes. The toe function of floating toe cases, including contact condition during movement, needs to be considered.