Feet

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

Resources[edit source]

Latest articles - Feet

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AI tools[edit source]

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