Foot Surgery
Introduction
The foot is a complex combination of joints that allow bi-pedal mobility. The complexity of the joints in the foot and ankle allow propulsion over uneven ground bearing the load of the body over a relatively small articular area. Not only does the foot allow the up and down movements of the ankle (dorsi-flexion and plantar-flexion), but it also allows sideways movement below the ankle joint in the sub-talar joint, permitting the foot to negotiate uneven ground.
This inversion and eversion movement of the sub-talar joint is also assisted by rotational movement in the joints of the mid-foot that permit pronation and supination.
The complex movements enable the body to traverse differing terrains and distribute the load and the propulsion of the body without excessive load transmitted through any single joint of the foot.
This complexity of joint mechanics needs to be appreciated whenever any foot surgery is being considered. Where it is necessary in the assessment of a foot or ankle problem, dynamic analysis and gait studies should be used to establish abnormalities of load bearing within such a complex of joints.
” A very sincere thank you for all you have done to make my operation such a success”.
Mr B, Redhill