CH 4: The Foot

Question 1

Arches of the foot

Answer 1

• Metatarsal arch
• Transverse arch
• Lateral Longitudinal arch
• Medial longitudinal arch

All arches work interdependently to disperse the absorption demands of the individual foot bones. Also assist in propulsion.

Question 2

What are Extrinsic and Intrinsic muscles (of the foot?)

Answer 2

Only for the foot: An extrinsic muscle will cross the ankle joint.

Intrinsic muscles remain on one plane and do not cross a the ankle joint.

Question 3

Pronation V Supination:

Answer 3

Pronation: Refers to a combination of eversion and abduction of the foot, resulting in a low to non-existent medial border of the foot. Results in low arches.

Supination: Refers to a combination of inversion and adduction of the foot, resulting in a dramatically raised medial border of the foot. Results in high arches.

Question 4

Pes Planus v Pes Cavus

Answer 4

Pes Planus: Flatfoot. Associated with excessive pronation and results in weakening supporting structures.
S/S:
- Pain
- Fatigue or flattening in medial longitudinal arch
- Bulging navicular

Pes Cavus: High Arch Foot. Associated with excessive supination, and results in accentuated high medial longitudinal arch.
S/S:
- Shortened achillies tendon
- shortened plantar fascia
- Heavy callous development on heel and ball of foot

If these conditions do not cause athlete pain, nothing should be done to correct problem.

Question 5

What is Morton’s Toe?

Answer 5

Abnormally short 1st metatarsal, making 2nd metatarsal look longer.

Results in more weight shifted onto 2nd metatarsal and can affect gait, and potentially stress fractures. Potentially hip or knee problems could follow.

Question 6

What is a Hallux Valgus deformity?

Answer 6

Bunion.

Prolonged pressure against the medial aspect of the first MTP joint which results in thickening of the medial capsule and bursa.

Can be caused by foot pronation, arthritis, relevant general ligament laxity and constant rubbing.

S/S: (May be asymptomatic)
- Pain of MTP joint
- ifficulty wearing shoes
- Callous on 2nd metatarsal

Question 7

What is Sesamoiditis?

Answer 7

Inflammation of the sesamoid bones in the ball of the foot and the tendons they are embedded in. Usually caused by hyperextension of great toe, and overuse (dancers & runners)

S/S:
- Pain under great toe
- Palpable tenderness under first metatarsal head.