ABSTRACT
The foot is a complex entity, composed of over 100 ligaments, 30 muscles, and 26 bones.
It has intricate movement patterns, which, at present, are not well understood. The foot provides a crucial mechanical role during locomotion, which may be summarized by the following four functions:
It provides a stable base of support to minimize muscular effort. It accommodates rotation of more proximal limb segments during the weight-
bearing phase of the gait cycle. Flexibility of the structures within the foot allows shock absorption and
accommodation of the terrain. Rigidity of structures within the foot allows leverage during push-off.
