Foot & Ankle Anatomy
The foot and ankle are complex structures that provide support, balance, and mobility. The ankle joint connects the foot to the lower leg and is formed by the tibia and fibula (shin bones) meeting the talus (foot bone). The joint allows for up-and-down movement of the foot, while the surrounding ligaments and tendons provide stability and enable side-to-side motion. The foot itself consists of 26 bones, including the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges, as well as muscles and tendons that allow for walking, running, and jumping.
The arches of the foot, including the medial, lateral, and transverse arches, help absorb shock and distribute weight during movement. Muscles such as the calf muscles and the intrinsic foot muscles contribute to both movement and support. This combination of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles makes the foot and ankle incredibly versatile, enabling complex motions like walking, running, and balancing. The intricate anatomy also makes the foot and ankle prone to a variety of conditions, including sprains, fractures, tendinitis, and deformities such as flat feet.
