Immediate Effects of Dynamic and Rigid Taping on Static and Dynamic Plantar Pressure Distribution in Individuals with Hallux Valgus: A Cross-Over Study

Background/Objectives: We aimed to investigate the effects of different taping techniques commonly used in the management of hallux valgus (HV) on plantar pressure distribution under static and dynamic conditions. Methods: Thirty participants, including 15 individuals with HV and 15 healthy controls, were included. Individuals with mild–moderate HV were identified using the Manchester scale, while healthy participants were determined using the Foot Posture Index. Plantar pressure distribution was assessed using the Freemed Maxi pressure platform (Sensor Medica, Italy). Participants were first evaluated without taping. Rigid taping and dynamic taping with mechanical correction techniques were then applied in a randomized order with a 24-h interval. Participants rested for 30 min after each taping application to evaluate the immediate effect. The primary outcome variables were static total pressure, forefoot load, rearfoot load, and dynamic forefoot, rearfoot, medial, and lateral plantar loads measured using pedobarography. Results: Data were analyzed using a repeated-measures General Linear Model in SPSS 21.0. No significant differences were observed between groups in static total pressure, forefoot load, or rearfoot load (p = 0.965, p = 0.928, and p = 0.829, respectively). Significant effects were found for dynamic forefoot and rearfoot loads (p = 0.036 for both variables). Dynamic medial and lateral loads showed no significant differences (p = 0.338). Conclusions: Dynamic taping modified dynamic plantar loading during gait but did not restore plantar pressure patterns comparable to those of healthy individuals.