Objective: The present research attempted to compare the effect of postoperative immobilization orthosis (POIO) and plaster support on Metatarsophalangeal joint alingment in Hallux valgus patients.
Materials & Methods: In this quasi experimental and interventional study, 24 Hallux valgus patients were selected simply and conveniently based on inclusion criteria(age:19-50years, Hallux valgus angle<25˚, inter metatarsal angle=11˚-13˚, no degenerative change in first metatarsophalangeal joint and no general systemic disease) from orthopedic clinic of Milad hospital and were assigned by randomized permuted blocks into two equal groups. In splint group, a positive plaster model was constructed from their feet before surgery and immediately after surgery the orthoses were applied for six weeks. In plaster support group, all the forefoot plasters were applied at the end of operation. The Hallux valgus angle of patients' feet of two groups was measured by radiography immediately and six week after surgery. Chi-square, Independent T test, Pair T test, One way ANOVA and ANCOVA were used to analyze data.
Results: Means difference between Hallux valgus angle means of immediately after surgery and six weeks after surgery of two groups had no significant difference (P=1.00) and also there was no significant difference in Hallux valgus angle mean between immediately and six weeks after surgery in each group (P=1.00).
Conclusion: The effect of plaster support doesn’t differ with splinting in the maintenance of Hallux valgus angle after surgery, so both methods can be used according to patients situation.