Redefining biomechanics of the foot and ankle

When it comes to the load-bearing joints of the lower limb, the foot is the least understood. This stems from the fact that its size is a major barrier to quality scientific investigation but is also partly due to the the misconception that its function is simple. While we may believe we know a great deal about the biomechanics of the foot and ankle, in reality, it is relatively uncharted territory compared to the knee and hip. The foot is far from simple as it comprises hundreds of different ligaments and bony structures and scores of articulations. Its role in weightbearing ambulation is critical. In the next few decades, the foot and ankle will be a major topic investigated by biomechanics researchers and this will present some major challenges for these researchers as well as podiatrists.