Kinetic Control Versus Dynamic Taping on First Metatarsophalangeal Joint in Athletes With Functional Hallux Limitus

This study is conducted to investigate and compare the effect of adding either kinetic control retraining or dynamic taping to the standard treatment program on first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion active range of motion, first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion strength, forefoot strike pattern running, vertical jump performance, and lower limb injury prevention in intermediate-professional level indoor sports athletes with functional hallux limitus.

Inclusion Criteria: * Ninety male and female indoor sports' athletes at intermediate to professional level of indoor sports. * Athletes aged from 18 to 35 years. * Body Mass Index ranged from 22.5- 28 kg/cm2. * Athletes with a habitual Fore Foot Strike Pattern by determining foot strike angle using Insole Pressure Sensors. * Athletes with less than 37° of the first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion active range of motion using a Digital Goniometer (Positive Jack test). * Athletes with less than 50° of the first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion active range of motion using a Digital Goniometer. (Positive flexor hallucis longus stretch text). * Athletes with at least a 1.8-kg (4-lb) difference in first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion strength as compared to the opposite side using hand-held dynamometer. * Athletes with pinch calluses, hyperkeratotic skin lesions identified by palpation on the medial surface of the affected first metatarsophalangeal joint (not the metatarsal head). * Athlete's shoes must be with a minimal or no heel to toe drop design to facilitate Fore Foot Strike Pattern as Foot Strike Patterns may be facilitated partly by the shoe wear type. * If any athlete changes the running shoes, it must be a safe transition for a few weeks to few months, to avoid injuries (stress fractures) or performance alteration. Exclusion Criteria: * Athletes with other habitual foot strike patterns rather than a forefoot strike pattern. * Any limitation to the first metatarsophalangeal joint dorsiflexion active range of motion while resting plantar flexion position of the ankle. * Athletes shoes that are cushioned with a high heel-to-toe drop which encourages Rearfoot Strike Pattern as foot strike patterns may be facilitated partly by the type of shoe wear. * History of musculoskeletal system disorders (spine deformities, disc pathologies, orthopedic contractures, or osseous deformities such as: Sheperds fracture, Large steidas process, Ostrigonum Cysts and dorsal talar exostosis. * History of surgeries in the last six months. * History of neurological disorders. * Any preexisting injury that may become exacerbated or made worse with participation. * History of contact dermatitis or cutaneous adverse reaction to Dynamic Tape. * Radiological signs as first metatarsophalangeal joint head alterations, dorsal or lateral spurs, and bunion formation, as mostly radiographs of Functional Hallux Limitus are normal and these signs are more relevant to hallux rigidus which will not be evaluated in this study.