Biomechanical Considerations in Rearfoot Fusions

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Podiatry

Background:

• Normal foot and ankle function is primarily established during the stance phase of gait.
• External and internal forces significantly impact foot function, often necessitating compensatory mechanisms.
• Chronic compensation can lead to debilitating disorders like degenerative joint disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss rearfoot fusions for foot and ankle surgeons.
• To outline the interaction between the ankle, subtalar, and midtarsal joints.
• To review congenital deformities, trauma, and abnormal compensation leading to sequelae.

Main Methods:

• Review of biomechanical principles of foot and ankle function.
• Analysis of joint interactions during gait.
• Examination of etiologies of foot and ankle disorders.

Main Results:

• Compensation due to forces leads to symptoms and disorders.
• Understanding joint mechanics is key to identifying pathology.
• Surgical intervention is often necessary for symptom reduction and stabilization.

Conclusions:

• Rearfoot fusions are indicated for specific foot and ankle conditions.
• Restoring normal biomechanics and joint function is the goal of surgical intervention.
• Surgery aims to reduce pain, improve position, and enhance foot and ankle stability.