title: Sensitivity and specificity of the functional hallux limitus test to predict foot function.
abstract: Functional hallux limitus is an underrecognized entity that generally does not produce symptoms but can result in a variety of compensatory mechanisms that can produce symptoms. Clinically, hallux limitus can be determined by assessing the range of motion available at the first metatarsophalangeal joint while the first ray is prevented from plantarflexing. The aim of this study was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of this clinical test to predict abnormal excessive midtarsal joint function during gait. A total of 86 feet were examined for functional hallux limitus and abnormal pronation of the midtarsal joint during late midstance. The test had a sensitivity of 0.72 and a specificity of 0.66, suggesting that clinicians should consider functional hallux limitus when there is late midstance pronation of the midtarsal joint during gait.
authors.affiliation: Department of Podiatry, School of Human Biosciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia.
authors.forename: Craig
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Payne
authors.forename: Vivienne
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Chuter
authors.forename: Kathryn
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Miller
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005260:Female; D005528:Foot / Q000503:physiopathology; D005684:Gait; D020857:Hallux Limitus / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D013640:Tarsal Joints / Q000503:physiopathology*