Interesting Facts About Foot Anatomy
Your feet are among nature’s most complex structures. They are comprised of many small parts, all working together in perfect harmony to allow you to stand upright, walk, and run free from pain. How much do you know about the anatomy of your feet? Here are some interesting facts for you from Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos:
- Each of your feet contains 26 bones. Together, that makes up more than one quarter of all the bones in your body!
- These bones come together in 33 joints, including the joints that form the three delicate arches (medial, lateral, and fundamental longitudinal) of your feet.
- Each foot also contains 19 muscles, 107 ligaments, and miles of blood vessels and nerves. With so many moving parts, it’s no wonder they are prone to injury.
- A thick layer of fatty tissue under the sole of your foot helps absorb the pressure and shock that comes from walking and everyday movements. When this tissue is damaged, plantar fasciitis can One common approach to treating the resulting heel pain is custom orthotics.
- Conversely, there is little fat to protect the bones at the tips of your toes. That’s why it hurts so much when you stub a toe, and why fractured phalanges (toe bones) commonly result from a bump.
The complex anatomy of the feet requires expert medical treatment. Fortunately, your board-certified podiatrist is a medical specialist with years of training and experience in diagnosing and treating all illnesses and injuries of this part of your body. If you are experiencing discomfort when you stand or walk, or if you have any concerns about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, the first step on the road to recover is a visit with a podiatrist like Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM. Schedule a convenient appointment in our modern, comfortable Chicago office today. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started.
