Underfoot pressure distribution in patients after surgical treatment of proximal end of femoral bone

Author(s): JACEK LORKOWSKI, WALDEMAR HŁADKI, MAREK TRYBUS, DANIEL ZARZYCKI

Aim: The aim of this study was to estimate the underfoot pressure distribution in patients after fractures of the proximal end of femoral bone. Material and methods: We examined 22 patients, both sexes, aged 58-76 after an operative treatment of a fracture of the neck of femoral bone (9 patients,) or a pertrochanteric fracture (13 patients) and finishing of the rehabilitation. The examinations were performed av. 2,8 y after surgical treatment. The control group consisted of 40 healthy subjects. We used physical examination, Xray, and underfoot pressure measurements using static and postural pedobarographic tests. The plantar pressure was determined at foot regions distinguished on the ground of classification of Blomgren’s. Results: In all patients we found the reduction of the hip joint movement range (mainly hyperextension, internal rotation), in radiological study the total healing of the fracture, and in 7 cases moderately advanced degenerative changes of the hip joint. Pedobarographic examination revealed that on the operated side in 12 patients was a decreased pressure under T and H foot regions on the operated side, in 6 - a decreased pressure under MT1-MT5 foot regions, in 3 - a decreased pressure under all foot regions and in 1 patient an increased pressure under T and H foot regions. Conclusion: Pedobarography revealed lack of complete return of normal weight-bearing of the plantar surface of the foot av. 2,8 years after surgery because of the femur bone proximal end fracture.