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Biomechanical evaluation of longitudinal arch stability
C K Huang1, H B Kitaoka, K N An
1Department of Orthopedics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905.
Foot & Ankle
|July 1, 1993
Summary
The plantar fascia significantly stabilizes the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. This key structure
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Anatomy
Background:
- Pes planus (flatfoot) is common, yet the specific roles of anatomical structures in maintaining foot arch stability are not well-defined.
- Surgical interventions for flatfoot symptoms are frequent, but understanding the biomechanical contributions of supporting structures is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the relative contributions of the plantar fascia, plantar ligaments, and spring ligament to the stability of the medial longitudinal arch.
Main Methods:
- Twelve human cadaveric feet were subjected to axial compressive loads (230, 460, 690 N).
- Arch dimensions were measured after sequential sectioning of the plantar fascia, plantar ligaments, and spring ligament in various orders.
Main Results:
- The plantar fascia provided the greatest contribution to arch stability.
- Sectioning the plantar fascia reduced arch stiffness by 25%.
- Plantar ligaments and the spring ligament also contributed to stability, but to a lesser extent than the plantar fascia.
Conclusions:
- The plantar fascia is a critical component for maintaining the structural integrity of the medial longitudinal arch.
- Understanding these biomechanical contributions is essential for developing effective treatments for conditions like pes planus.