Biomechanics of Foot and Ankle Quiz

What type of joints are the metatarsophalangeal joints?

What is the range of extension for the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint?

What is the main function of the ligaments and muscles that stabilize the interphalangeal joints?

Which of the following bones does not contribute to the medial longitudinal arch of the foot?

What is the highest point of the medial longitudinal arch?

What is the main purpose of the arches of the foot being raised by the support of ligaments and muscles?

How many bones are present in the foot and ankle?

What type of joint is the talocrural joint?

What is the primary motion occurring at the subtalar joint?

What is the function of the ligaments connecting the backfoot to the midfoot?

During subtalar pronation, what happens to the tibia and talus?

What is the function of the tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc) joint?

Metatarsophalangeal Joints

Metatarsophalangeal joints are classified as condyloid joints.
The 1st metatarsophalangeal joint has a range of extension of up to 70 degrees.

Stabilization of Interphalangeal Joints

Ligaments and muscles stabilize the interphalangeal joints primarily by preventing excessive movement and providing structural support.

Medial Longitudinal Arch of the Foot

The fibula does not contribute to the medial longitudinal arch of the foot.
The highest point of the medial longitudinal arch is located at the navicular bone.

Purpose of Foot Arches

The raised arches of the foot, supported by ligaments and muscles, serve to distribute weight, absorb shock, and enhance balance and stability during movement.

Bone Structure of Foot and Ankle

There are a total of 26 bones present in the foot and ankle.

Talocrural Joint

The talocrural joint is a hinge joint, allowing primarily for dorsiflexion and plantarflexion motions.

Subtalar Joint Motion

The primary motion occurring at the subtalar joint is inversion and eversion of the foot.

Ligament Functionality

Ligaments connecting the backfoot to the midfoot help maintain foot structure and provide stability during movement.

Subtalar Pronation Dynamics

During subtalar pronation, the tibia internally rotates, and the talus moves down and medially.

Tarsometatarsal (Lisfranc) Joint Function

The tarsometatarsal joint plays a key role in transferring weight from the hindfoot to the forefoot and maintaining foot stability during movement.

Test your knowledge on the biomechanics of the foot and ankle, including the structures, functions, and joints involved in movement. Explore the complexities of the 26 bones, 30 synovial joints, ligaments, and muscles that make up these vital structures.