Centre of pressure characteristics during walking in individuals with and without first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis

Abstract Objective The objective of this study was to compare centre of pressure characteristics during walking in individuals with and without first metatarsophalangeal joint osteoarthritis (1st MTPJ OA), in order to provide insights into alterations in foot function associated with this condition. Methods Twenty people with 1st MTPJ OA and 20 asymptomatic controls matched for age, sex and body mass index underwent gait analysis using the emed ® -x400 plantar pressure system (Novel GmbH, Germany). Average and maximum centre of pressure velocity and lateral-medial force index during loading, midstance, terminal stance and preswing were compared between the groups. Results During the preswing phase of gait, maximum centre of pressure velocity was significantly slower in individuals with 1st MTPJ OA (0.78 ± 0.19 vs 1.13 ± 0.36 m/sec; p  = 0.003), and both average and maximum lateral-medial force indices were significantly higher in individuals with 1st MTPJ OA (0.98 ± 0.14 vs 0.82 ± 0.13; p   0.001 and 1.37 ± 0.29 vs 1.15 ± 0.15; p  = 0.008, respectively). Non-weightbearing 1st MTPJ dorsiflexion range of motion was significantly associated with maximum centre of pressure velocity ( r  = 0.54, p  r  = −0.44, p  = 0.004) during preswing. Conclusions Individuals with 1st MTPJ OA exhibit significant differences in centre of pressure characteristics during propulsion, possibly due to decreased range of available 1st MTPJ dorsiflexion.