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Anatomy of the Subtalar Joint
Jan Bartoníček1, Stefan Rammelt2, Ondřej Naňka3
1Department of Orthopaedics, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Central Military Hospital Prague, U Vojenské nemocnice 1200, Prague 6, 169 02, Czech Republic; Department of Anatomy, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University Prague, U Nemocnice 3, Prague 2, 128 00, Czech Republic.
Foot and Ankle Clinics
|August 12, 2018
Summary
The subtalar joint complex, crucial for foot motion, involves intricate anatomical structures like the talocalcaneonavicular and talocalcaneal joints. Ligaments and bone alignment guide its complex three-dimensional movements, enabling eversion and inversion.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
- Orthopedics
Background:
- The subtalar joint is a complex anatomical structure essential for foot function.
- It is divided into the talocalcaneonavicular and talocalcaneal joints, separated by the sinus and canalis tarsi.
- This joint complex facilitates three-dimensional foot motion, including inversion and eversion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the anatomical components of the subtalar joint complex.
- To elucidate the structures occupying the sinus and canalis tarsi.
- To explain the factors guiding three-dimensional motion within the subtalar joint.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical dissection and description.
- Review of relevant anatomical literature.
- Analysis of biomechanical principles governing joint motion.
Main Results:
- The subtalar joint comprises the talocalcaneonavicular (ball-and-socket) and talocalcaneal articulations.
- The sinus and canalis tarsi contain the inferior extensor retinaculum, cervical ligament, and interosseous talocalcaneal and anterior talocalcaneal ligaments.
- The spring ligament is a key component of the talocalcaneonavicular joint.
Conclusions:
- The intricate anatomy of the subtalar joint, including its ligaments and articular surfaces, dictates its function.
- Three-dimensional motion is governed by the alignment of the talus, calcaneus, and navicular, along with ligamentous constraints.
- Understanding this complex anatomy is vital for diagnosing and treating foot and ankle pathologies.
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