Biomechanical Evaluation of Morton's Toe Effects on Plantar Pressure Distribution during Gait: A Preliminary Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: The foot's anatomical structure, particularly the toes, plays a crucial role in distributing forces and pressures on the sole. Morton's toe, a condition where the second toe is longer than the first, is a notable morphological feature that can impact foot stability and increase the risk of walking-related injuries. This study investigated the biomechanical effects of Morton's toe on plantar pressure during walking.Materials and Methods: Thirty-two students from Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran, were examined in two groups of ۱۶ (Morton’s foot and normal). The emed C۵۰ plantar pressure measurement platform was used to record the data. The variables investigated included peak pressure, contact area, contact time, and pressure-time integral in ۱۰ anatomical regions of the plantar foot.Results: In individuals with Morton's foot, the peak pressure and pressure-time integral in the lateral midfoot region were higher than those in the normal group (P = ۰.۰۳۲ and P = ۰.۰۴۱, respectively). These values also showed a significant increase at the second metatarsal head (P = ۰.۰۰۲ and P = ۰.۰۰۴) and the third metatarsal head (P = ۰.۰۱۱ and P = ۰.۰۰۳). Additionally, the contact area at the second metatarsal was significantly increased (P = ۰.۰۲۸). In contrast, the peak pressure, contact area, and pressure-time integral in the hallux region decreased in the Morton's foot group (P = ۰.۰۱۴, P = ۰.۰۰۹, and P = ۰.۰۰۱, respectively). Furthermore, the peak pressure at the first metatarsal also decreased (P = ۰.۰۲۱). A significant reduction in the pressure-time integral was also observed at the fourth metatarsal (P = ۰.۰۱۹). Furthermore, in the second to fifth toes region, the peak pressure and pressure-time integral were significantly higher in the Morton's foot group (P = ۰.۰۲۵ and P = ۰.۰۳۳, respectively).Conclusion: These findings suggest that Morton's foot alters plantar pressure distribution, potentially increasing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. The study underscores the importance of designing appropriate footwear and using customized orthotic interventions to reduce pressure and improve foot function in individuals with Morton's toe.

کلیدواژه ها:

Morton's toe ، Pressure distribution ، Second metatarsal ، Foot biomechanics ، Gait