Plantar ligament

Plantar Ligament

The Plantar Ligament, also known as the Plantar Calcaneonavicular Ligament or the Spring Ligament, is a complex structure located in the foot. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the arch of the foot and is often implicated in conditions such as flat feet and plantar fasciitis.

Anatomy

The Plantar Ligament is a broad, thick band of fibrous tissue that spans from the calcaneus (heel bone) to the navicular bone on the inner side of the foot. It is composed of three distinct parts: the superomedial, inferomedial, and lateral parts. The superomedial part is the thickest and strongest, providing the primary support for the arch of the foot.

Function

The primary function of the Plantar Ligament is to support the arch of the foot, particularly during weight-bearing activities such as walking or running. It acts as a shock absorber, distributing the forces exerted on the foot. Additionally, it helps to maintain the alignment of the foot bones and prevent overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot).

Clinical Significance

Damage or degeneration of the Plantar Ligament can lead to a variety of foot conditions. These include flat feet (pes planus), where the arch of the foot collapses, and plantar fasciitis, a painful condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to repair or reconstruct the ligament.

See Also

• Foot
• Ligament
• Flat feet
• Plantar fasciitis