ABSTRACT
Bipedalism (Hunt 1993), using two feet and adopting an upright posture, was a major step in human evolution as the forelimbs (hands) were freed for other tasks. The feet became more specialized in weight-bearing and locomotion, while losing their ability to climb. As humans advanced, foot coverings (footwear) to provide protection against harsh weather, animals, and rough terrain were invented. Footwear has become specialized, being influenced by fashion and technological innovations. Even though much has been done, footwear fit and comfort has often been neglected, resulting in foot injuries and illnesses (Luximon 2001). In addition, many modern sports impose a heavy load on the foot, therefore it is important to understand the foot shape, forces acting on the foot, and movements of the foot, in order to design biomechanicalfriendly footwear. Moreover, the study of foot static, dynamics, and forces (foot biomechanics) is important not only for footwear design but also for foot evaluation and rehabilitation (Abboud 2002). This chapter provides a basic knowledge of foot biomechanics beginning with the structure of the human foot.
