Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of hallux valgus severity on general and footspesific health related quality of life (HRQOL). Two hundred and sixty three subjects (139 women, 124 men) aged between 16-80 with hallux valgus were enrolled in this study. Measures used were the quality of life according to SF-36, a disease specific score (the American Orthopeadic Foot and Ankle Society's (AOFAS) clinical rating system for the hallux), angular severity of the deformity by a goniometer. The severity of hallux valgus angle (HVA) significantly affected SF-36 subsclaes the Physical Function, Vitality and Mental Health (p=0,00) for both feet, the Role Physical (p=0,00) for right and (p=0,001) for left foot, the Role Emotional (p=0,001) for right and (p=0,03) for left foot, the Bodily Pain (p=0,00) for right and (p=0,009) for left foot, the General Health (p=0,003) for right and (p=0,03) for left foot and the AOFAS score for the hallux (p=0,001) for right and (p=0,00) for left foot. There is a reduction for both general and footspesific HRQOL with increasing severity of hallux valgus deformity. These data may serve as a base for clinical hallux valgus studies with use of the SF-36 or the AOFAS outcome questionnaire. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation is warrented to normalize the SF-36 and AOFAS scores

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