Abstract
BackgroundThe relationship of metatarsalgia and toe function is poorly understood. We investigated the efficacy of toe exercises for the treatment of metatarsalgia.MethodsForty-one (56 feet) metatarsalgia patients (mean age ± SD: 63.4 ± 10.6) underwent toe strength measurement. We recorded pre- and post-treatment VAS score, AOFAS score, marble pickup, single-leg standing time (SLST), and compared in two subgroups to evaluate impact of disease duration on treatment outcome.ResultsPost treatment, toe plantarflexion strength improved (all p < 0.01); VAS scores decreased (p < 0.01); AOFAS scores, marble pickup, and SLST improved (all p < 0.01). Patients symptomatic for > 1 year had significantly lower changes in VAS scores (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis showed patients with longer disease duration, and larger body mass index had significantly lower improvement in VAS scores (p = 0.029 and p = 0.036, respectively). Device consistency assessed by ICC was excellent (0.89–0.97).ConclusionToe function and metatarsalgia are improved by toe exercises, suggesting that they are closely related.
Highlights
Muscle mass decreases after approximately age 50 [1]
The unique findings of this study provide objective evidence confirming the effects of toe exercise on metatarsalgia
Our results suggest that a different treatment strategy may be needed for chronic pain in metatarsalgia lasting more than 1 year
Summary
Muscle mass decreases after approximately age 50 [1]. This age-related loss of muscle mass is termed “sarcopenia” and has been a focus of constant attention because of its association with mortality [2]. The toes play a crucial role and assist stability during gait and balance tasks [5]. Elderly patients tend to have decreased toe grip strength (TGS) of approximately 30%, compared to younger patients [6]. Loss of toe-muscle strength leads to impaired balance, thereby increasing the risk of falls [5]. The relationship of metatarsalgia and toe function is poorly understood. We investigated the efficacy of toe exercises for the treatment of metatarsalgia
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