In medical terminology, feet (plural of foot, abbreviated as 'ft') refer to the terminal part of the leg below the ankle. This is a crucial anatomical structure that provides support, balance, and mobility.
Anatomy of the Foot
The foot is complex, comprising various bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. It's generally divided into three main sections:
- Tarsals: These are a set of seven bones located in the ankle and heel region. Examples include the calcaneus (heel bone) and talus.
- Metatarsals: These are the five long bones that form the midfoot. They connect the tarsals to the phalanges.
- Phalanges: These are the bones of the toes. Each toe has two or three phalanges except the big toe, which has two.
Functionality
The foot serves several key purposes:
- Support: It bears the weight of the body.
- Locomotion: It enables movement, such as walking, running, and jumping.
- Balance: It helps maintain stability and equilibrium.
- Shock Absorption: It cushions the impact during physical activities.
Clinical Significance
Foot problems are common and can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Some common conditions affecting the feet include:
- Fractures: Breaks in the bones of the foot.
- Sprains: Injuries to the ligaments.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
- Bunions: Deformities at the base of the big toe.
- Neuropathies: Nerve damage that can cause pain, numbness, or tingling in the feet, often associated with conditions like diabetes.
Common Medical Terms
- Pes: Latin word for foot, often used in medical contexts.
- Podiatry: The branch of medicine focused on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of foot conditions.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Feet (ft) | Terminal part of the leg below the ankle. |
| Tarsals | Bones of the ankle and heel region. |
| Metatarsals | Bones of the midfoot. |
| Phalanges | Bones of the toes. |
| Pes | Latin term for foot. |
