Hallux valgus in children. Biomechanical aspect: A literature review

BACKGROUND: The study comprehensively describes the issues of the normal biomechanics of the first toe, first metatarsophalangeal joint, and first ray when walking. Understanding the fundamental processes of the functioning of these structures is a leading aspect in the study of the etiopathogenesis of hallux valgus and is important in treatment planning. AIM: To analyze the literature concerning the kinematic and kinetic indicators of the first toe, first metatarsophalangeal joint, and first ray of the foot when walking in the final support phase. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The characteristics of periods, gait phases, kinetic and kinematic movements were analyzed. RESULTS: To perform a “push-off” when walking, sufficient extension of the first toe in the first metatarsophalangeal joint is necessary, which is fully accomplished only in combination with flexion and eversion of the first ray of the foot. Muscular control of the position of the first toe in the first metatarsophalangeal joint is carried out by the short and long flexors of the first toe with the sesamoid apparatus of the first metatarsal bone, whereas functions of the first ray and midfoot joints are stabilized by the peroneus longus muscle. CONCLUSIONS: The influence of kinematic and kinetic indicators of movements in the lower-limb joints in the horizontal plane on the flexion of the first ray and extension of the first toe in the metatarsophalangeal joint and the determination of the nature and volume of movements in midfoot joints in various phases of the gait cycle remains a pressing issue.