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Foot

The foot is a complex structure that supports the body's weight and enables movement. It consists of bones, muscles, tendons, and joints that work together for balance and gait.

Contents

Quick version

What is the foot?

The foot is the lowest part of the leg that is in direct contact with the ground. It consists of 26 bones, over 30 joints, and a network of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The foot is divided into three parts: the forefoot, the midfoot, and the hindfoot. Its main functions are to support the body's weight, absorb shock, and enable walking and running.

Anatomy and structure

The foot consists of 26 bones: 7 in the hindfoot (including the calcaneus and the talus), 5 metatarsals, and 14 toes. These are held together by ligaments and moved by both intrinsic and extrinsic foot muscles. Strong tendons such as the Achilles tendon (Achilles tendon) also play a central role in the foot's ability to move.

Function and biomechanics

The foot acts as a shock absorber and a lever when walking and running. Its arch structure makes it possible to handle body weight and dynamic load. The foot adapts to different surfaces and balances the body.

Movement and load

With each step, the foot undergoes a complex sequence of movements: heel strike, foot roll and push-off. This requires good muscle control, mobility and stability in the entire foot and .

Development and age

In children, the arches of the feet are not fully developed and can be perceived as "flat". With age, the arches can sink, which can cause discomfort. Older people are more likely to suffer from wear and tear and poor circulation in their feet.

Common conditions and diseases

The foot is exposed to both acute injuries and overuse. Common problems include heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, hallux valgus, stress fractures and osteoarthritis. Incorrect shoes, being overweight and working a lot on your feet increase the risk of problems.

Examination and diagnosis

Diagnosis is often done through clinical examination, gait analysis and sometimes imaging diagnostics such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI of the foot. A physiotherapist, orthopedist or podiatrist can make the assessment depending on the nature of the problem.

Relevant symptoms

  • Pain in the heel, arch or forefoot
  • Swelling or stiffness
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Toe or arch deviation
  • Fatigue in the feet after activity

Related conditions and diagnoses

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Heel spurs
  • Morton's neuroma
  • Hallux valgus
  • Pes planus (flat feet)
  • Arthritis of the ankle or toe joints

Questions and answers

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue at the bottom of the foot, often near the heel bone. It causes pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. It is common in runners and people who stand a lot.

No, but they are often related. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tendon attachment at the bottom of the foot, while a heel spur is a small bony growth on the heel bone. Many people with plantar fasciitis also have a heel spur, but it is not the spur that causes the pain – it is the inflammation of the tendon itself.

Heel spurs are caused by prolonged overuse of the tendon attachments of the heel, often in conjunction with plantar fasciitis. They appear as a small bony growth on the heel bone and can cause pain when walking.

Hallux valgus is a misalignment of the big toe that bends towards the other toes on the foot. It causes a bulge on the inside of the foot and can cause pain and problems with shoes.

Treatment for the pain depends on the cause but may include rest, shoe inserts, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or, if necessary, surgery. Early diagnosis improves the prognosis.

If the pain does not go away with self-care, gets worse, affects walking, or causes numbness, you should seek medical attention. Sudden swelling or discoloration also requires evaluation.

Flat feet are completely sunken arches, while low arches are a milder form. Both can cause pain or foot problems, especially without supportive shoes.

Supportive shoes with good cushioning, a roomy toe box, and a firm heel counter are best. Orthotic inserts may be needed for some conditions. Avoid flat or tight shoes.

Choose the right shoes, change them regularly, train your feet with balance and strength exercises, and avoid standing for long periods of time. Early treatment of problems reduces the risk of chronic problems.

A certain feeling of fatigue is normal after longer walks, but pain, especially persistent or localized, may indicate overload or improper support that should be investigated further.