Foot and Ankle

Question 1

Functions of the foot

Answer 1

Balance
Shock absorption, load bearing
Lever for propulsion (locomotion)

Question 2

Longitudinal Arch

Answer 2

From calcaneus to the metatarsals
Can be high/medium/low

Question 3

Transverse Arch

Answer 3

Extends across the foot from the 1st to 5th metatarsals

Question 4

Pes Planus (flat feet)

Answer 4

Low arches: softer foot type, good shock absorption, less propulsion, may be due to excessive eversion

Question 5

Pes Cavus (high arch)

Answer 5

High arches: generally a rigid foot type, poor shock absorption but good propulsion

Question 6

Plantar Fascia

Answer 6

Web-like ligamentous structure
Attached to the calcaneus, metatarsals, phalanges and the skin
Helps supports the base of the entire foot, including both arches during load bearing

Question 7

Plantar Fasciitis

Answer 7

overuse injury.
Symptoms: pain in heel region after a period of inactivity and when foot is in dorsiflexion
Causes: obesity, lots of standing, tight achilles tendon, micro tears of tendons creating tightness in the region

Question 8

Subtalar Joint

Answer 8

Transverse tarsal joint - movement at these joints allow for inversion and eversion and as a result pronation/supination

Question 9

4 Compartments of the Foot and Ankle

Answer 9

Superficial posterior
Deep posterior
Anterior
Lateral

Question 10

Achilles Tendon Rupture

Answer 10

Symptoms - sudden onset of sharp pain in heel, snapping sound, difficulty walking
Causes - sudden dorsiflexion when muscle in tension, sudden heavy activation of achilles after prolonged periods of inactivity

Question 11

Shin Splints

Answer 11

small tears/inflammation of the muscles attaching to the tibia. Stress fractures

Question 12

Ankle Sprains

Answer 12

> 90% caused by inversion - less common via eversion because of anatomy
Stretch ligaments on outside of the joint can lead to a sprain
re-injury increases by 50%