Arches of the foot

Question 1

Arrangement of foot bones

Answer 1

• Two lengthwise rows
• Tibial (medial) row: talus, os navicularis, cuneiform bones, 1-3 metatarsal bones, 1-3 phalangeal bones
• Fibular (lateral) row: calcaneus, cuboideum, 4th and 5th metatarsal bones, and 4th and 5th phalangeal bones

Question 2

Longitudinal arches

Answer 2

• Distally the foot bones are arranged side to side
• Proximally the tibial row is inserted onto the fibular row (talus attaches itself onto the dorsal side of the calcaneus)
• This creates a cranially directed convex arch - medial and lateral longitudinal arches

Question 3

Transverse arch

Answer 3

• In the area of cuneiform bones and metatarsal bones the transverse arch is formed - concave on plantar side

Question 4

Securing the arches of the foot

Answer 4

• By ligaments, as well as by muscle traction - predominantly m. tibialis anterior et posterior, m. fibularis longus and long flexor of the toes and the big toe

Question 5

Function of the arches

Answer 5

• Three pressure points:

1. Tuberosity of the calcaneus - proximally
2. Head of first metatarsus - distally
3. Head of fifth metatarsus - distally

• Protect soft parts (particularly vessels and nerves) in plant pedis against lesions by pressure during standing