Comparison of the Effect of Custom-made Medial Arch Support Insole with and without Medial Sole Wedge on the Degree of Pain and Hallux Valgus by Digital Imaging Immediately and after Six Weeks of Use

Introduction: Hallux valgus is one of the most common foot deformities that causes pain, decreased foot function and difficulty wearing shoes. Although different foot orthoses and medical insoles are considered as a therapeutic intervention in this complication, their impact is challenging. The aim of the present study was to compare the effect of custom-made medial arch support insole with and without medial sole wedge on the degree of pain and hallux valgus by fast digital imaging and after six weeks of use. Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 5 patients with moderate hallux valgus deformity participated in this study, and were randomly divided into two groups. Intervention groups were provided with medial arch support insole with and without sole wedge. The effect of the intervention on the degree of pain and angle of hallux valgus deformity was evaluated at the beginning and after 6 weeks of intervention using an imaging technique and the FAOS questionnaire. Results: Six-week use of custom-made insoles with medial longitudinal arch support in both cases - with and without sole wedge- significantly reduced pain in patients with moderate hallux valgus. With respect to hallux valgus angle, two types of intervention immediately showed an improvement in angle, but in long-term use of the above-mentioned insoles, no significant difference was observed in the improvement of hallux valgus angle. Discussion & Conclusion: Custom-made insoles with medial longitudinal arch support can significantly reduce pain in patients with hallux valgus. Addition of changes such as medial sole wedge can clinically control and prevent the exacerbation of hallux valgus angle. Therefore, the use of the above-mentioned orthosis can be considered as one of the effective treatments.