The skeletal structure of the human foot. Anatomy of the joints of the foot and their diseases

The lower limbs take on the weight of the whole body, therefore they suffer from injuries, various disorders, they are more likely than other parts of the musculoskeletal system. This is especially true for the feet, which daily receive a shock load when walking: they are vulnerable, and therefore the pain sensations that appear in them can indicate a whole list of diseases or pathologies. Which joints suffer more often than others and how to help them?

The structure of the foot

The bones in this zone of the human body stretch from the heel to the very tips of the fingers and there are 52 of them, which is exactly 25% of the total number of bones in the human skeleton. Traditionally, the foot is divided into 2 sections: the anterior, consisting of the zones of the metatarsus and fingers (including the phalanges of the skeleton of the foot), and the posterior, formed by the bones of the tarsus. The shape of the forefoot is similar to the metacarpus (tubular bones of the hand) and phalanges of the fingers, but it is less mobile. The general scheme looks like this:

Phalanges - a set of 14 tubular short bones, 2 of which belong to the thumb. The rest are collected in 3 pieces. for each finger.
Metatarsus - short tubular bones in the amount of 5 pieces, which are located between the phalanges and the tarsus.
Tarsus - the remaining 7 bones, of which the largest is the calcaneus. The rest (talar, navicular, cuboid, wedge-shaped intermediate, lateral, medial) are much smaller.

What are the joints of the foot

Movable joints are a connected pair of links that ensure the movement of the bones of the skeleton, which are separated by a gap, have a synovial membrane on the surface and are enclosed in a capsule or bag: this definition is given to joints in official medicine. Thanks to them, the human foot is mobile, since they are located in the areas of flexion and extension, rotation, abduction, supination (outward rotation). Movements are made with the help of the muscles that hold these joints together.

Joint Features

The phalanges that make up the segments of the toes have interphalangeal joints that connect the proximal (near) with the intermediate, and the intermediate with the distal (distant). The capsule of the interphalangeal joints is very thin, has a lower reinforcement (plantar ligaments) and a lateral (collateral) reinforcement. In the departments of the metatarsus of the foot, there are 3 more types of joints:

The talocalcaneal (subtalar) is an articulation of the talus and calcaneus, characterized by the shape of a cylinder and a weak tension of the capsule. Each bone that forms the talocalcaneal joint is dressed in hyaline cartilage. Strengthening is carried out by 4 ligaments: lateral, interosseous, medial, talocalcaneal.
Talon-heel-navicular - has a spherical shape, assembled from the articular surfaces of 3 bones: talus, calcaneus and navicular, located in front of the subtalar joint. The head of the articulation is formed by the talus, and the rest are attached to it by depressions. It is fixed by 2 ligaments: plantar calcaneonavicular and talonavicular.
Calcaneocuboid - formed by the posterior surface of the cuboid bone and the cuboid surface of the calcaneus. It functions as a uniaxial (although it has a saddle shape), has a tight tension of the capsule and an isolated articular cavity, is strengthened by 2 types of ligaments: long plantar and calcaneocuboid plantar. Plays a role in increasing the range of motion of the joints noted above.
The transverse tarsal joint is an articulation of the calcaneocuboid and talocalcaneal-navicular joints, which has an S-shaped line and a common transverse ligament (due to which they are united).

If we consider the zone of the metatarsus, here, in addition to the already mentioned interphalangeal joints, there are intertarsal joints. They are also very small, needed to connect the bases of the metatarsal bones. Each of them is fixed by 3 types of ligaments: interosseous and plantar metatarsal and dorsal. In addition to them, in the tarsal zone there are such joints:

Metatarsal-tarsal - represent 3 joints that serve as a connecting element between the bones of the metatarsal and tarsal zones. They are located between the medial sphenoid bone and the 1st metatarsal (saddle joint), between the intermediate with the lateral sphenoid and the 2nd with the 3rd metatarsal, between the cuboid and the 4th with the 5th metatarsal (flat joints). Each of the joint capsules is fixed to the hyaline cartilage, and is strengthened by 4 types of ligaments: tarsal-metatarsal dorsal and plantar, and interosseous cuneiform and metatarsal.
Metatarsophalangeal - spherical in shape, consist of the base of the proximal phalanges of the toes and 5 heads of the metatarsal bones, each joint has its own capsule, fixed to the edges of the cartilage. Its tension is weak, there is no strengthening on the back side, on the lower side it is provided by plantar ligaments, and on the sides, collateral ligaments provide fixation. Additionally, stabilization is provided by the transverse metatarsal ligament, which runs between the heads of the bones of the same name.

Diseases of the joints of the foot

The lower limbs are subjected to loads daily, even if a person does not lead an active lifestyle, so trauma to the joints of the legs (especially the feet that take on body weight) occurs with particular frequency. It is accompanied by deformity and inflammation, leading to a limitation of motor activity, which increases with the progression of the disease. Only a doctor can determine why the joints of the foot hurt based on the diagnosis (X-ray, MRI, CT scan), but the most common are:

Sprain is an injury not to the joints, but to the ligaments, which occurs due to the increased load on them. Mostly athletes suffer from this problem. Pain in the foot is observed at the ankle joint, increases during walking, the limitation of movement is average. With a weak sprain, there is only discomfort with soreness when trying to transfer weight to the leg. The damaged area may swell, often there is an extensive hematoma on it.
Dislocation - a violation of the configuration of the joint by the release of the contents of the joint capsule to the outside. The pain syndrome is acute, impedes movement completely. It is impossible to control the joint, the foot remains fixed in the position it received at the time of injury. Without the help of a specialist, the problem cannot be solved.
Fracture is a violation of the integrity of the bone, mainly due to the impact force on it. The pain is sharp, sharp, leading to complete impossibility of movement. The foot is deformed, swollen. There may be hematomas, redness of the skin (hyperemia). It is possible to determine the fracture and its nature (open, closed, with displacement) only by means of an x-ray.
Arthrosis is a degenerative process in the cartilage tissue of the joints, gradually affecting adjacent soft tissues and bones. Against the background of a gradual compaction of the joint capsule, the amplitude of joint movement decreases. Pain in arthrosis of the feet is aching, at rest it weakens. When walking, a crunch of the joints is felt.
Arthritis is an inflammatory process of the joints that cannot be completely stopped. Injuries, infections, diabetes, gout, syphilis can provoke arthritis. An allergic nature is not excluded. The pain syndrome is present only during periods of exacerbation, but manifests itself with such force that a person is unable to move.
Bursitis is an inflammation of the joints of the foot in the area of the periarticular bags, mainly due to excessive loads on the legs (it is diagnosed with a high frequency in athletes). Affects mainly the ankle, with the rotation of which the pain intensifies.
Ligamentitis is an inflammatory process in the ligaments of the foot, which is provoked by trauma (may develop against the background of a fracture, dislocation or sprain), or an infectious disease.
Ligamentosis is a rare (relative to the problems listed above) pathology that affects the ligamentous apparatus of the feet and is of a degenerative-dystrophic nature. It is characterized by the growth of fibrous cartilaginous tissue, of which the ligaments are composed, and its subsequent calcification.
Osteoporosis is a common systemic pathology affecting the entire musculoskeletal system. It is characterized by an increase in bone fragility due to changes in bone tissue, frequent injury to the joints (up to fractures from minimal load).

Pain in the leg joint at the foot can be caused not only by acquired diseases, but also by some pathologies that imply foot deformity. These include flat feet, which develops against the background of wearing improperly selected shoes, obesity or osteoporosis, hollow foot, clubfoot, which is predominantly a congenital problem. The latter is characterized by shortening of the foot and subluxation in the ankle area.

Symptoms

The main sign of problems with the joints of the foot is pain, but it can indicate literally any condition or pathology, from injury to congenital disorders. For this reason, it is important to correctly assess the nature of the pain and see additional signs by which it will be possible to more accurately guess what disease a person has encountered.

Bursitis

By the strength of pain in the area of inflamed areas, bursitis is difficult to compare with other diseases, since it is intense and sharp, especially at the time of rotation of the ankle. If you palpate the affected area, the pain syndrome also worsens. Additional symptoms of bursitis are:

local hyperemia of the skin;
limitation of range of motion and decrease in their amplitude;
hypertonicity of the muscles of the affected limb;
local swelling of the leg.

Osteoporosis

Against the background of an increase in bone fragility, due to a decrease in bone mass and changes in its chemical composition, the main symptom of osteoporosis is an increased vulnerability of the joints and lower extremities in general. The nature of the pain is paroxysmal, acute, its intensification occurs during palpation. Additionally present:

permanent aching pain;
fast onset fatigue under load;
Difficulties in performing habitual physical activity.

Arthritis

The inflammatory process affects all joints in the foot, and it can be primary or secondary. In the presence of additional diseases, against which arthritis has developed, the symptoms will be wider. An approximate list of signs by which this disease can be identified is as follows:

swelling of the area of the affected joint or diseased foot completely;
hyperemia of the skin in the area of inflammation;
the pain is constant, has a aching character, rolls in attacks until the movement is completely blocked;
foot deformity in the later stages of the disease;
loss of function of the affected joints;
general malaise - fever, headaches, sleep disturbances.

arthrosis

The slow course of degenerative processes in the cartilage tissue at the initial stage is almost not noticed by a person: the pain is weak, aching, causing only slight discomfort. As tissue destruction intensifies and the affected area increases (with involvement of bone tissue), the following symptoms appear:

crunching in the joints during their activity;
acute pain during physical exertion, subsiding at rest;
deformation of the affected area;
increased articulation against the background of soft tissue edema.

Ligamentite

In the inflammatory process occurring in the ligamentous apparatus, the pain is moderate, mainly aggravated by the transfer of weight to the injured leg and movement. The disease is detected exclusively during ultrasound or MRI, since the symptoms of ligamentitis are similar to traumatic damage to the ligaments. The signs are:

In the case of osteoporosis, it is important to strengthen the bone tissue, for which sources of phosphorus and calcium are introduced into the diet (an additional intake of mineral complexes), vitamin D is possible. Additionally, calcitonin (slows down resorption - bone destruction), somatotropin (bone formation activator).
In case of injury (fracture, dislocation, sprain), immobilization of the joint with an elastic bandage is mandatory - it is mainly performed on the ankle. In the event of a fracture, the surgeon then, if necessary, returns the bones to their place, and then a plaster tape is applied.
In the presence of hematomas, edema (stretching, bruising), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Nise, Ketonal) are used locally, cooling compresses are applied.
A dislocated joint is put back in place by a traumatologist or surgeon (under anesthesia), after which functional treatment is prescribed for elderly patients: exercise therapy, massage.
With severe inflammation with money-dystrophic processes (typical for arthritis, arthrosis, osteoporosis), the doctor prescribes locally injected analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs externally and internally, muscle relaxants.
In case of arthrosis at the last stage, when the movement becomes blocked, the only way out is to install an endoprosthesis, since money-making disorders are irreversible.

A separate type of therapeutic effect is physiotherapy: shock wave therapy, electrophoresis, UV therapy, paraffin applications. These techniques are prescribed in the early stages of arthrosis, with ligamentosis, ligamentitis, bursitis, they can be used in relation to traumatic lesions, but, in any situation, this is only an addition to the main treatment regimen.

Video

With a complex structure, the bones of the foot together provide important functions. Among the main tasks are adaptation to the surface, ensuring movement, soft and elastic gait. Pathology or injury of any of the elements of this system will adversely affect the rest of the components of this section of the limb.

Functions and structure

The human foot is a complex structure necessary to maintain the vertical position of the body, absorb the force of contact with the ground when walking (about 70%), and move on a variety of surfaces. This organ consists of 26 bones, differing in structure and appearance, interconnected by muscles and ligaments.

A person can be born with extra bones, which usually do not harm him directly or indirectly.

The connection of bone structures with each other is a function of the joints, which ensure the integrity and mobility of the skeleton, the coordination of the movement of individual elements and the ability to perform complex gestures. A joint is a connection of bones capable of moving its parts relative to each other, while remaining intact. The surfaces involved in the formation of the connection are covered with cartilaginous tissue of extremely low roughness. The gap between the bones is filled with a lubricating joint fluid that facilitates sliding. All elements are enclosed in an articular bag, which protects the system from violation of the integrity and damage to its components.

Leg joints are often injured. A fall or bad foot placement can lead to a dislocation or fracture. In order to avoid complications, the treatment of such injuries should be entrusted to a qualified specialist. The following is a detailed description of the structure of the bones of the foot.

The foot is divided into three functional parts:

Distal - toes, consisting of small movable elements.
The metatarsus is the middle fragment, which is made up of long bones similar to each other.
The tarsus is a complex supporting section.

Fingers are made of phalanges - tubular bones of small length. Like the structure of the upper limbs, the big toes contain 2 phalanges, and the rest have 3. The base of the finger consists of: proximal, middle and distal (nail) bones. Often, the little toes of the feet contain 2 phalanges due to the fusion of the nail and middle. The bones of the fingers have a cylindrical body, crowned at one end with the proximal epiphysis (base), at the other - with the distal (head). The latter has a tubercle. The heads of the proximal and middle phalanges are block-shaped.

The base of the proximal phalanx has a recess for the formation of the metatarsophalangeal joint with the corresponding metatarsal bone. The role of these joints is to provide partial flexion and extension of the fingers, as well as some of their abduction and adduction. The phalanges of each individual finger are connected by block-like interphalangeal joints, which allow you to bend and unbend the fingers.

The metatarsophalangeal joints experience significant stress, which increases the risk of disease.

The metatarsal bones (long, tubular, 5 in number) form a transverse arch that softens cyclic shock loads when walking, jumping and running. The first metatarsal bone of the foot (counting from the first toe) is the widest and shortest, the second is longer than all the others. The shape of all bones of the metatarsus is similar: the trihedral body ends at one end with a relatively massive base (proximal epiphysis), at the other end with a head flattened on the sides (distal). Metatarsal bones are well palpated from the back of the foot, covered with a relatively small layer of soft tissues. The body of the bones bends slightly upward. From below, the base has a palpable tuberosity.

The heads of the bones have spherical articular surfaces in contact with the proximal phalanges of the fingers. The lateral articular areas on the bases enter the intertarsal joints, the posterior ones form articulations with the tarsal bones.

The first and fifth metatarsophalangeal joints contain sesamoid bones - small additional formations of a rounded or disc-shaped shape. Sesamoid bones may also occur at the interphalangeal junction of the first finger, on the underside of the cuboid.

The first metatarsophalangeal joint is often subject to arthrosis. The distortion of its shape is due to the formation of a bone outgrowth on the outer edge of the metatarsal bone.

The bones of the foot of this area have a different shape, their anatomy is quite complex. The tarsus has 2 rows - distal and proximal. The size that the tarsal bones of the human foot have is associated with large loads due to upright walking. The only one directly connected to the lower leg is the talus of the foot, the remaining fragments of this section increase the arching of the foot. Each of the components of the foot skeleton is discussed in more detail below.

The lateral section of the distal row contains 5 bones.

The cuboid bone found its place at the outer (lateral) edge of the foot in the gap, partly limited by the calcaneus and the lateral sphenoid, partly by the metatarsals. The groove, marked from below on the bone, is laid for the muscle tendon. In front, the bone has a surface for IV and V metatarsal bone formations, divided by a scallop. Behind, it contacts with the calcaneus, for which there is a saddle-shaped surface and the calcaneal process. Articular platforms on the medial side are designed for adjacent bones of the tarsus.
The navicular bone of the foot is located at its inner edge. The ends of the formation are flattened, the upper surface is curved, the lower one is sunken. On the lateral edge there is a small area in contact with the cuboid bone. The oval cavity of the posterior part of the navicular bone with the corresponding bulge of the talus creates the joint of the same name. The anterior surface bears articular facets for the three sphenoid bones, and between them lie crest-like outgrowths. These fragments form a sedentary wedge-shaped joint.
Wedge-shaped formations owe their name to their appearance. In the direction from the outer rib are placed: medial (largest), intermediate (smaller) and lateral (middle of the three in size) bones. Their back parts are attached to the navicular bone. The cuneiform, cuboid, and metatarsal joints form the tarsometatarsal joints. This system, due to the many ligaments, is quite rigid, and forms a solid foundation for the foot.

The proximal row includes rather large structures: talus and calcaneus. Sponginess provides them with resistance to heavy loads.

The talus is a massive body facing the heel, flows into a more refined part - the neck, ending with an oval head, "looking" towards the fingers. A formation on the upper body is called a block. The upper articular platform of the block is of complex shape, connected to the lower part of the tibia. Attached to the ankles are the lateral (outward facing) and medial (inner) sides of the block. This formation is a component of the ankle, the role of which is to ensure flexion and extension of the leg. This is a powerful connection, but because of the loads it perceives, it is often injured or ill, which significantly complicates life with severe pain when moving. The pommel of the head of the talus, which has a spherical articular formation, is in contact with the navicular bone. Two platforms located below and separated by a transverse groove are intended for docking with the calcaneus. The talus and calcaneus at the junction with each other form a subtalar joint - cylindrical, with an axis of rotation in the sagittal plane. Violation of the functions of this connection increases the risk of injury to the leg due to the forced redistribution of loads.
The calcaneus is located in the posterior part of the tarsus on the plantar side. Continuing the vertical axis of the human body, it carries almost all of its mass. It is the largest, strongest and heaviest bone in the foot. It is oblong, flattened on the sides, the main parts are the body and the tubercle (thickening at the rear end), which are easy to feel. The anterior protruding fragment of the medial part of the bone provides support for the talus. An extended recess on the lateral side is provided for the tendon muscles. Behind the talus and the protrusion of the calcaneus from top to bottom, a groove also cuts, inside it is placed the tendon of the flexor of the first finger. The lower parts of the tubercle protrude, forming 2 processes - lateral and medial. Below on the tubercle is the calcaneal tubercle.

The appearance of a "heel spur" can provoke a gait disturbance due to discomfort.

The saddle surface for the cuboid is on the side of the calcaneus closest to the toes, they form the calcaneocuboid junction. The calcaneus is part of a spherical talocalcaneal-navicular joint, reinforced with powerful ligaments. Pairing with the subtalar, it rotates the foot to the outside and back.

Thanks to these joints, it becomes possible to perform complex leg movements - dance, acrobatic, etc.

From the foregoing, it follows that the bones of the human foot have a different structure, depending on the tasks assigned to them.

muscles

The poorly developed muscles of the upper side of the foot perform only the extension of the fingers, the plantar - shock-absorbing functions.

The state of the muscles is reflected in the functions of the limb: excessive tension or underdevelopment will inevitably affect the joints. The converse statement is also true: diseases of the skeleton will affect the muscles. Excessive relaxation of the muscles of the foot and lower leg threatens with flat feet.

Tendons and ligaments

Bones are attached to muscles through tendons, elastic tissues that take on excess stress when the muscles are stretched. An overstretched tendon can become inflamed.

Ligaments surround the joint, providing its integrity. This fabric is quite flexible, but does not differ in elasticity. Rupture or sprain of a ligament can cause swelling of the injured limb, severe pain and hemorrhage, and limited mobility. In ignorance, the symptoms can be confused with signs of another kind of injury.

The lack or complete absence of blood supply to the bones leads to osteonecrosis - the destruction of bone substance due to the death of "starving" cells. The result can be degenerative arthritis.

The major arteries of the leg are the dorsal and posterior tibial. Veins - large (on the inside of the leg), small (on the outside), as well as deep-lying tibial. Arteries fill tissues with blood, and veins drain it. Smaller vessels provide blood circulation in certain areas, capillaries connect them together. Violation of blood flow leads to depletion of tissues with oxygen. Distance from the heart is the reason why it is the feet that are the first to feel the consequences.

Blood supply problems are diagnosed by a change in skin tone, its cooling, and the presence of edema. Symptoms often worsen in the late afternoon or after heavy exertion. Varicose veins are also a common condition.

cartilage

The substance of the cartilage smoothes the articular surfaces, providing smooth movement and preventing inflammation, inevitable during friction.

Diseases

The foot undergoes regular loads: static when standing or percussive - in the process of movement. No wonder that her injuries and pathological changes are so common. In addition to the inevitable pain, a visible violation of the norm can also serve as a symptom of the disease - an increase in individual epiphyses, swelling, and curvature of the fingers. The deformation is especially well manifested by x-rays. The most common pathologies are discussed below.

The cause of arthrosis is the loss of cartilage elasticity, which occurs when the metabolic processes in the joint are disturbed. Symptoms of the disease: pain during the work of the joint, a characteristic crunch, swelling around the affected area, violation of the anatomy of the fingers.

Among the causes of osteoarthritis are the following:

systemic connective tissue diseases: lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, etc.;
infectious diseases;
allergic reactions;
consequences of dislocations, synovitis (accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity), bruises;
metabolic disorders;
tuberculosis, syphilis.

One of the characteristic varieties of the disease is arthrosis of the first toe. Its development goes through 3 stages.

At the end for or after prolonged exertion, pain occurs, which fade away after a long rest. There may be some deviation in the shape of the thumb, as yet insignificant. When moving, you can hear a crunch.
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are taken to eliminate increasing pain. The thumb is strongly curved, the selection of shoes is complicated.
The pain does not disappear even after the use of analgesics. The deformity affects the entire foot, impairing its supporting ability.

Another, "favorite" place of arthrosis is the ankle. In the later stages, cartilage tissue is affected, the joint is deformed.

It is possible to slow down the development of arthrosis without resorting to surgical intervention only in the early stages. Establish control over the potential causes of the disease, optionally prescribe physiotherapeutic measures. A neglected disease is treated surgically: by endoprosthetics or by more gentle methods - resection of formations, arthroplasty.

Osteoarthritis, affecting only the joints, resembles another disease with a consonant name - arthritis, because of which the body as a whole suffers, and joint diseases are complicating.

Arthritis

Depending on whether the joint is damaged or its pain is caused by other causes, primary and secondary arthritis are distinguished. Pathology is caused by the same reasons as arthrosis.

The main symptoms of arthritis are:

pain;
the affected area or the lower part of the limb swells, the skin turns red;
limb deformity;
in some cases, there is an increase in temperature, a rash forms, fatigue overcomes.

The treatment of arthritis is based on the elimination of the root cause of the disease, which requires accurate diagnosis and control by specialists. For example, methods of treating systemic diseases of the joints and connective tissue may require a different approach: medication (with drugs like Depos), physiotherapy, manual, etc.

There are intermediate conditions between arthrosis and arthritis, bearing symptoms of both, characterized by pain, mostly aching.

Foot deformities

Pathological changes can be acquired or congenital. The most common deformities of the distal leg are described below.

The flattening of the foot leads to a weakening of its spring function. The disease can be congenital or develop over time. The causes of acquired flat feet include the following:

excess load, excess weight;
diseases of the nerve endings;
past or active diseases: rickets, osteoporosis;
trauma;
poor quality shoes.

Flat feet are of two types.

The transverse is characterized by a decrease in the height of the corresponding arch. All metatarsal heads are in contact with the floor, while only I and V should be.
With longitudinal flat feet, the sole is in full contact with the surface. In addition to increased fatigue and pain in the lower extremities, human organs suffer from excessive shock loads.

Clubfoot

In most cases, pathology accompanies a person from birth. Subluxation of the ankle joint leads to a pronounced supinator position of the foot. At the same time, its length is reduced. The reasons for the deviation received during life can be injuries of the lower extremities, paralysis, paresis. Clubfoot, which is congenital in nature, is diagnosed during examination.

Disease prevention

It is possible to partially or completely prevent the development of pathologies, given the following recommendations.

Warm-up exercises will prepare the limbs for the upcoming load.
Practicing gentle sports (skiing, cycling, swimming) will help keep the most complex leg muscle system in good shape, which in itself is a good prevention of diseases.
Walking on pebbles, sand, grass has a beneficial effect on the soles of the feet.
Refusing uncomfortable shoes will benefit the limbs and overall well-being.
Reducing the frequency of wearing high heels will reduce the risk of complications.
The use of appropriate footwear for sports will reduce the impact loads on all body systems. These shoes should be changed periodically.
The legs need regular rest, just like the rest of the body.

Some threats to well-being are not obvious, including the dependence of the state of the internal organs on the choice of running shoes for a morning run. Some cases require a mandatory visit to the doctor, but in order to maintain one's own health, sometimes it is enough to avoid deliberately destructive situations.

It is arranged and functions as an elastic movable vault. The arched structure of the foot is absent in all animals, including anthropoids, and is a characteristic feature for humans, due to upright posture. Such a structure arose in connection with new functional requirements for the human foot: an increase in the load on the foot in a vertical position of the body, a decrease in the area of \u200b\u200bsupport, combined with savings in building material and the strength of the entire structure.

A complex of foot bones, connected almost immobile with tight joints, forms the so-called solid base of the foot, which includes 10 bones: os naviculare, ossa cuneiformia mediale, intermedium, laterale, os cuboideum, ossa metatarsalia I, II, III, IV, V. Of the ligaments in strengthening the arch of the foot, lig plays a decisive role. plantare longum - long plantar ligament. It starts from the lower surface of the calcaneus, stretches forward and is attached by deep fibers to the tuberositas ossis cuboidei and superficial to the base of the metatarsal bones. Throwing through the sulcus ossis cuboidei, the long plantar ligament turns this groove into a bone-fibrous canal through which the tendon m. peronei longi.

In the general arched structure of the foot, there are 5 longitudinal arches and I transverse. longitudinal vaults start from one point of the calcaneus and diverge forward along the radii convex upwards, corresponding to 5 rays of the foot. Sustentaculum tali plays an important role in the formation of the 1st (medial) arch. The longest and highest of the longitudinal vaults is the second. The longitudinal arches, connected in the anterior part in the form of a parabola, form the transverse arch of the foot.

Bone vaults are held by the shape of the bones that form them, muscles and fascia, and the muscles are active "puffs" that hold the arches. In particular, the transverse arch of the foot is supported by the transverse ligaments of the sole and oblique tendons m. peroneus longus, m. tibialis posterior and transverse head m. adductor hallucis. Longitudinally located muscles shorten the foot, and oblique and transverse narrow. This bilateral action of the tightening muscles maintains the arched shape of the foot, which springs and determines the elasticity of the gait. With the weakening of the described apparatus, the arch falls, the foot flattens and may acquire an irregular structure, called a flat foot. However, passive factors (bones and ligaments) play no less, if not more, role in maintaining the arch than active ones (muscles).

The ankle is the support of the human skeleton in its lower part. It is on him that we rely when we walk, run or play sports. A weight load falls on the foot, and not moving, as on the knees. Therefore, it is required to understand the structure of the human foot, presenting its diagram with the designation of ligaments and bones.

This area of the body is considered the distal sphere of the leg - the lower limb. This is a complex articulation of the smallest bones that form a strong arch and serve as a support when we move or stand. The anatomy of the foot, its structure will become clearer if you know the scheme of its structure.

The underside of the foot that touches the ground is commonly referred to as the sole or foot. The reverse side is called the back. It is divided into three components:

finger phalanges;
metatarsus;
tarsus.

The vaulted design and the abundance of joints give the foot amazing reliability and strength, moreover, elasticity with flexibility.

foot ligaments

The ligamentous apparatus of the foot and lower leg holds all the bone structures together, protecting the joint and limiting its movement. Anatomically, these structures are divided into three sets.

The first of these includes fibers that connect the tibia to each other. Interosseous - this is the area of the membrane located below, stretched between the lower legs in its entire length. The posterior inferior is designed to impede the internal movements of the bones. The anterior peroneal inferior goes to the ankle, located outside, from the tibial bone, keeping the ankle from turning outward. The transverse ligament fixes the foot against inward movement. These fibers attach the fibula to the tibia.

The external ligaments are represented by the anterior and posterior talar fibular, as well as the calcaneal-fibular. They go from the outer region of the fibula, scattering in all possible directions to parts of the tarsus. Therefore, they are called the "deltoid ligament". They are designed to strengthen the outer edge of the area.

The next group includes internal ligaments running on the side of the joint. The tibial scaphoid, tibial ligament of the heel, the posterior from the anterior tibial talus were brought here. They start at the ankle from the inside. Designed to keep the tarsal bones from moving. The most powerful link does not stand out here - they are all quite strong.

Foot bones

The foot ligaments are always attached to the bones. From the rear of the tarsus are placed the calcaneal with the talus, in front - the three wedge-shaped, cuboid and navicular. The talus bone is located between the calcaneal and distal ends of the tibia, connecting the foot with the lower leg. She has a head with a body, between them, in turn, is a narrowing, a neck.

On top of this body is the articular area, a block that serves as a connection with the tibia. A similar surface is also present on the head, in its front part. She articulates it with the navicular bone.

It is curious that on the body, from the outside and from the inside, articular elements are found that articulate with the ankles. There is also a deep furrow in the lower region. It separates the articular elements that articulate it with the calcaneus.

The calcaneus refers to the posterior part of the tarsus. Its shape is somewhat elongated and flattened on the sides. It is considered the largest in this area. A body and a tubercle are distinguished in it. The latter is well felt.

There are articular components on the bone. They articulate it with bones:

with a ram - at the top;
with cuboid - in front.

From the inside, there is a protrusion on the calcaneus that serves as the base for the talus bone.

The navicular bone is located near the inner end of the foot. It is located in front of the talus, inside the cuboid and behind the sphenoid bones. On its inner region, a tuberosity was found, looking down.

Feeling well under the skin, it is an identification point that allows you to determine the height of the inner region of the foot longitudinal arch. Anteriorly, it is convex. There are also joint areas here. They articulate with nearby bones.

The cuboid bone is located at the outer part of the foot, articulating:

in front - with the 5th and 4th metatarsal;
behind - from the heel;
from the inside - from the external wedge-shaped and navicular.

A furrow runs along it from the bottom. Here is the tendon of the peroneal long muscle.

In the tarsus, the anterior-internal compartment includes wedge-shaped bones:

lateral;
intermediate;
medial.

They are located in front of the scaphoid, behind the 1st metatarsal triplet and inside relative to the cuboid bone.

In the five metatarsal bones, each of the tubular type. All stand out:

head;
body;
base.

Any representative of this group with a body resembles an outwardly 3-sided prism. The longest in it is the second, the first is the thickest and shortest. On the bases of the metatarsal bones there are articular areas that articulate them with other bones - the nearest metatarsal, as well as tarsal.

On the heads there are areas of joints that articulate them with the proximal phalanges located in the fingers. Any of the metatarsal bones is simply palpable from the back. Soft tissues cover them with a relatively small layer. All of them are located in different planes, creating a vault in the direction across.

In the foot, the fingers are divided into phalanges. Like the hand, the first finger has a pair of phalanges, the rest have three. Often, in the fifth finger, a pair of phalanges grows together into a single whole, and in the end, not a triple, but a pair remains in its skeleton. Phalanges are divided into distal, middle and proximal. Their fundamental difference on the legs is that they are shorter than on the arms (distal, in particular).

Like the hand, the foot has sesamoid bones - and much more pronounced. Most of them are observed in the area where the 5th and 4th metatarsal bones are associated with the proximal phalanges. Sesamoid bones reinforce transverse arching in the anterior part of the metatarsus.

The ligaments in the foot are also attached to the muscles. On its back surface is a pair of muscles. We are talking about short extensor fingers.

Both extensors start from the inner and outer spheres of the calcaneus. They are fixed on the proximal digital phalanges, which correspond to them. The main work of these muscles is the extension of the fingers on the foot.

The muscles and ligaments of the foot are diverse. There are three muscle groups located on the surface of the sole. The inner group includes the following muscles responsible for the work of the thumb:

the one that takes him away;
short flexor;
the one that brings him.

All of them, starting from the bones of the tarsus and metatarsus, are attached to the thumb - the basis of its proximal phalanx. The functional of this group is clear from the definitions.

The outer muscle group of the foot is everything that affects its fifth toe. We are talking about a pair of muscles - a short flexor, as well as the one that removes the little finger. Each of them is attached to the 5th finger - namely, to its proximal phalanx.

The most important among the groups is the middle one. Includes muscles:

a short flexor for the fingers, from the second to the fifth, attached to their middle phalanges;
square plantar, attached to the tendon;
worm-like;
interosseous - plantar and dorsal.

The direction of the latter is towards the proximal phalanges (from the 2nd to the 5th).

These muscles start on the bones of the metatarsus with the tarsus on the plantar region of the foot, except for the worm-like ones, which start from the tendons of the long digital flexor. All muscles are involved in various finger movements.

In the plantar region, the muscle tissue is stronger than in the back. This is due to different functional features. In the plantar region, the muscles hold the arches of the foot, to a large extent providing its spring qualities.

The human foot is the most important part of the musculoskeletal system. It functions like an elastic vault. It is a person who is considered the only organism in the world that has a vaulted foot structure. The similar anatomy of the foot is due to upright posture. As soon as a person with the course of evolution began to walk on two legs, the foot needed to perform new functional tasks, due to which the structure of this part of the lower extremities was vaulted.

The foot and its joints suffer very often due to many negative mechanical factors. Among them:

excessive stress on the joints;
injuries, fractures, sprains;
violations of metabolic processes in the body;
lack of nutrients in the body;
work in heavy production and work on legs;
freezing feet and more.

The most common symptoms of foot disease are:

pain syndrome;
tissue swelling;
feeling of tightness.

To cope with the disease as efficiently as possible and identify its cause, it is worth understanding the anatomical structure of the foot.

foot anatomy

The human foot includes 3 main components: bones, ligaments, and muscles. Each of these elements performs a number of important functions. This allows you to maintain the musculoskeletal system in working condition. If the integrity of one of the structures is violated, dysfunction of the entire joint is observed.

The human foot has a rather complex bone structure. The articulation includes three departments, namely:

The tarsus is the leading part of the foot, which has 7 main bones in its structure - the calcaneus, talus, sphenoid, cuboid, navicular.
The metatarsus is the middle section, consisting of 5 leading bones, shaped like a tube and leading to the beginning of the location of the phalanges of the fingers. At the ends of these bones there is an articular surface. This ensures the mobility of the bones. It is this section of the foot that contributes to the correct arch of the feet.
Fingers - this department has 14 bones. Thanks to the proper functioning of the phalanges of the fingers, a person is able to properly maintain balance and evenly distribute body weight. The human thumb consists of 2 bones, the rest of the fingers have 3 bones in their structure in the standard version.

Bones play an extremely important role in the structure of the skeleton of the foot and its joints. Special attention should be paid to their location and main functions:

The largest bone in the foot is the calcaneus. It takes on the maximum load and is responsible for the distribution of balance. It is located at the back of the foot. This bone does not belong to the ankle, but due to its work, the correct distribution of weight and pressure occurs.
The talus is smaller. It is covered with cartilaginous tissue and at the same time enters the ankle part of the joint. Responsible for the functioning of the ligamentous apparatus. The bone itself has as many as 5 articular surfaces. All of them are covered with hyaline cartilage, which greatly reduces the friction process.
The cuboid bone is located on the back of the foot. In appearance, it resembles a geometric figure - a cube, which allows it to be quickly distinguished from other bones.
The navicular bone is responsible for the arch of the foot. The element is located on the body of the foot itself, coming down parallel to the talus.
The sphenoid bones are as close as possible to each other, providing maximum mobility. There are 3 such bones in total. Right behind them is the navicular bone, and in front of them are the metatarsals.

It is worth noting that the structure and functioning of the metatarsal bones in humans at any age is the same. The initial view is a tubular shape with a characteristic angular bend. It is he who forms the arch of the foot.

The anatomy of the human feet is not limited to joints, bones, and ligaments. The full structure of the ankle is ensured due to the proper functioning of blood vessels, nerve fibers and muscles.

The joints provide mobility to the feet. The following varieties are distinguished:

Ankle - formed with the help of the lower leg and talus. The ankle is presented in the form of a block. Along its edges are ligaments, and the joint is attached to the cartilage. Due to the mobility of this joint, a person is able to freely perform any rotational movements.
Subtalar - represented by a sedentary connection located in the rear compartment. It performs the work of the arch of the calcaneus and talus bones.
Talon-calcaneal-navicular - all 3 bones are a universal articulation with a certain axis of rotation. Around this axis, rotational movements are made inward and outward.
Tarsus-metatarsals are small joints that have a specific flat shape. They have extremely limited and poor mobility. Due to the presence of multiple ligaments, which is present in the tarsal bone, the rest of the bones are actually fixedly connected to each other. This helps to form a solid foundation for the foot.
Metatarsophalangeal - inactive joints that have a streamlined spherical shape. Responsible for the flexion-extension of the fingers.
Interphalangeal - fixed on the sides with ligaments, which helps to ensure optimal fixation and immobility of the joint.

If we consider all the parts and components of the articulation of the foot, then the ankle joint is considered the largest, since it combines 3 bones at once. Also, it is this joint that takes on the greatest load. As for the other joints, they are smaller. Additionally, they provide the foot with flexibility and mobility.

Structure

The skeleton of the foot and joints is considered inferior without muscle work. The main acting and actively working muscles are located in the ankle, foot, lower leg. Together, the work of all muscles allows a person to have full-fledged movements.

Calf muscles - in front of the calf is the tibial muscle, which is responsible for flexion and extension of the feet. Thanks to the correct work of these muscles, a person has the ability to make extensor movements with his fingers. This department also includes the following types of muscles: short and long peroneal. They take on the work that is responsible for performing the lateral flexion of the foot. The back of the lower leg is responsible for the flexion of the sole. Here the triceps, gastrocnemius, soleus muscles are involved. It is this part that is subjected to daily serious stress.
Muscles of the foot - represent the back group of muscles, which is responsible for the extension of the small fingers (all four small fingers, except for the thumb). Additionally, several small muscles are located on the sole of the foot. They are responsible for abduction, adduction and full flexion of the toes.

The human foot performs 3 main functions:

Support. This function is explained by the ability to freely resist and prevent reactions when making vertical loads. When walking, this function is jogging. This task of the foot is the most difficult, since both purposes are simultaneously used in it - balancing and springing. With the deterioration of this function, a person begins to suffer from pain in the ankle when running or jumping.
Spring. It is aimed at smoothing shocks during the implementation of physical actions (running, jumping, walking). With a low level of the arches of the foot, a person may suffer from diseases of the lower extremities and spine. Internal organs can also be injured.
Balancing. It is aimed at adjusting the postures of the human body during movement. A healthy foot can spread out and cover the underlying surface, thereby giving a person the opportunity to feel the area where the foot is placed.

All functions of the foot interact with each other during active physical exertion. If one of the functions is violated, the remaining two are automatically violated.

Foot diseases

There are several main ailments of the feet and joints:

arthrosis - a chronic disease of the joints, leading to deformity and low mobility;
arthritis - inflammation in the joint;
gout is a disease of tissues and joints that develops against the background of a metabolic failure;
flat feet - a disease that suggests that a person has a flat foot that does not have a characteristic notch.

Diagnosis is necessary when the patient began to feel any unpleasant symptoms in the form of pain, stiffness or swelling of the tissues. The diagnosis is made only on the basis of clinical signs and the picture obtained during the X-ray examination. This is the minimum diagnostic basis necessary to identify the problem.

To clarify a more complete picture of the disease, the doctor may prescribe a series of tests. This will help to identify the inflammatory process, which can be a sign of a variety of ailments. The following instrumental studies may also be assigned:

CT of the joints. This allows you to determine the condition of the tissues, to identify the anatomical structure of the foot and its features, pathologies, as well as injuries. A doctor can get a complete picture of how the foot looks thanks to the layered images that the tomograph gives.
MRI of the joints. With the help of this study, the doctor can determine the presence of an inflammatory process in the tissues, as well as identify the first signs of such serious diseases as osteoarthritis, gout, and much more.

Other diagnostic methods, if the patient has undergone CT or MRI, are not prescribed as unnecessary.

To prevent the development of diseases of the feet and joints, patients must follow the preventive measures recommended by the doctor.

If you feel pain or fatigue in the foot, you need to rest.
A warm-up of the feet is necessary before each excessive effort and the upcoming load.
It is useful to walk barefoot on the grass, the main thing is to choose the safest places.
Comfortable shoes are also a prerequisite for healthy feet. The risk of disease is significantly increased when wearing heels and unstable stilettos.
Feet must be kept warm. Frequent freezing of the feet can lead to arthritis and other ailments.
Almost all doctors, regardless of their specialization, recommend walking more. The ideal solution would be not only to go for walks, but also to occasionally go swimming, cycling or skiing.
Nutrition is the basis of the health of the whole organism. It is important to eat properly and fully and as a prevention of foot diseases.

It is much easier to follow some preventive rules than to treat foot diseases. Keeping your feet healthy from a young age will allow you to enjoy life and maintain mobility until your later years.