Feet

Feet' are the lower extremity of the leg below the ankle, on which a person stands or walks. They are essential components of the human body that play a crucial role in balance, movement, and support. Each foot is made up of 26 bones, which are divided into three sections: the forefoot, the midfoot, and the hindfoot. These bones are connected by joints and surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments that facilitate movement and provide stability.

Structure

The structure of the foot can be divided into three main parts:

• Forefoot: This includes the five toes (phalanges) and the five longer bones (metatarsals). The largest toe is known as the hallux or big toe.
• Midfoot: This is a pyramid-like collection of bones that form the arches of the feet. These bones include the three cuneiform bones, the cuboid bone, and the navicular bone.
• Hindfoot: This area is made up of the heel (calcaneus) and the ankle (talus). The hindfoot connects the foot to the lower leg (tibia and fibula) at the ankle joint.

Function

Feet serve several vital functions, including:

• Support: They bear the weight of the body in standing, walking, and running.
• Balance: The feet help to maintain balance by adjusting the body's position.
• Movement: The complex structure of the foot allows for a wide range of movements, including walking, running, and jumping.

Common Conditions

Feet are susceptible to various conditions due to their complex structure and the amount of stress placed on them. Some common conditions include:

• Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot.
• Bunions: Bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe.
• Athlete's foot: A fungal infection that usually begins between the toes.
• Ingrown toenails: A condition in which the corner or side of a toenail grows into the flesh.
• Flat feet (pes planus): A condition in which the arches of the feet are flattened, allowing the entire sole to touch the floor when standing.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of the feet are essential for preventing injuries and conditions. This includes:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that provide adequate support.
• Keeping the feet clean and dry to prevent infections.
• Regularly trimming toenails to prevent ingrown toenails.
• Performing exercises to strengthen the feet and improve flexibility.

See Also

• Anatomy of the human foot
• Podiatry
• Orthotics
• Sports medicine