STUDY of ROLE of IST & IIND METATARSAL in HALLUX VALGUS DEFORMITY

Abstract

A B S TR A C T The foot is a specialized structure. It possesses a record of man’s prehistory which in completeness and legibility surpasses that of any other structure of the body. Indeed, the foot is a specialized structure adapted to the pattern of bipedal locomotion and to the additional stresses imposed upon the hind limb. During the transition of the foot from an arboreal ape’s foot to the terrestrial change has predominantly affected the 1st metatarsal with medial cuneiform (1stray)and the 2nd metatarsal with intermediate cuneiform (2ndray) In most primates the distal end of the 1st metatarsal is not tied by ligaments to the 2nd thus allowing the hallux marked freedom of movements (opposability). In the human foot, the plantar ligaments of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint are connected to the 2nd by deep transverse metatarsal ligaments. These are four bands and connect plantar ligaments of adjoining metatarsophalangeal joints to one another.1 Thus, the most important change which distinguishes man even from other primates is that, the opposability of the hallux in the apes has given way to the stability of the hallux in the apes has given way to the stability of the hallux and the 1st ray in the human foot. The 1st and the 2nd rays play a crucial role in foot function of weight bearing, body support and locomotion. Their deformities and affections, therefore, are disabling. Forefoot deformities constitute 90 % of all foot deformities1and those affecting the 1st ray are the commonest. Among these hallux valgus is the most disabling .Hence, it is important to understand the normal relationship between some of the parameters that constitute the most important part of the forefoot i.e. the 1st and the 2nd rays. Some of the parameters were studied earlier by based on anatomical observation and some statistical correlation2 of the 1st ray and its effect on the second ray. However, while examining the various abnormalities of the 1st ray, it was observed that not all the measurements were quantified or statistically correlated with each other. The two rays were linked to each other some a study of parameters and of their statistical correlations with each other. It would be possible to corroborate the previous opinions as to the anatomical causes of hallus valgus. Thus, the aim of this study is to –1 Establish and compare the values for bony configurations of the first and the second rays in the Indian feet 2 Show statistical correlation between parameters which will suggest the anatomical factors predisposing to hallux valgus. Research Paper