Subtalar Joint

Introduction[edit|edit source]

The subtalar (ST) joint is an articulation between two of the tarsal bones in the foot: thetalusandcalcaneus. The joint is classed structurally as asynovial joint, and functionally as a plane synovial joint.

的年代T joint allows for rotation of the foot, clinically known as inversion and eversion of the foot^[1].

Inversion and eversion allows^[2]:

• The foot and ankle to pivot/change directions,
• stay balanced
• walk across uneven terrain.
• act as a shock absorber

Structure[edit|edit source]

的年代T joint is multi-articular joint, with three articulated facets that provide a surface for the joint to glide.^[3]的年代T joint can be divided into two parts:

1. The anterior subtalar part: talar head articulating with the anterior and middle facets of the calcaneus^[1]. Which allows glide forward (anterior articulation)
2. The posterior subtalar part: the concave facet of the talus lies on the convex posterior facet of the calcaneus^[1]. Which allows glide backwards (posterior articulation)

There are several ligaments around the subtalar joint which provide stability. They can be classified as intrinsic (cervical ligament, interosseous talo-calcaneal ligament) and extrinsic ligaments (calcaneo-fibular ligament, deltoid ligament)^[1].

Movements[edit|edit source]

The movements that occur at the subtalar joint are gliding and rotation. The combination of these movements clinically are known as inversion and eversion; these are considered to be the primary movements in the subtalar joint^[1].

The mechanics of the foot is not in isolation. It is accompanied by movements in the talocalcaneonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints^[4].

1. Supinationin the subtalar joint is primarily produced bytibialis anteriorandtibialis posterior, with assistance fromextensor hallucis longus,flexor hallucis longusandflexor digitorum longus.
2. Pronationis mainly produced byfibularis longus,fibularis brevisand fibularis tertius with assistance from the extrinsic muscles that extend the toes (extensor digitorum longusandextensor hallucis longus).

Function[edit|edit source]

的年代T joint is key to many functional activities such as walking and running. The mechanisms behind how the subtalar joint propels you us is very complex^[4].

This ST joints primary movements involve supination, in which the foot rolls toward the body's midline, and pronation, in which the foot rolls away from the midline. Both of these movements require a combination of distinct actions.

• Pronation requires a combination of dorsiflexion, abduction, and eversion.
• Supination requires a combination of plantar flexion, adduction and inversion

Physiotherapy Relevance[edit|edit source]

The subtalar joint is essential for mobility, and as such is prone to degeneration as with every weight bearing joint, trauma, and joint-specific disorders such as instability^[1]. Any damage done to the subtalar joint and surrounding soft tissues that support it may lead to pain, foot deformity (often permanent), and affect gait and mobility. Conditions affecting this joint include the below:

Directly Joint Related

1. 幼年型类风湿性关节炎: The subtalar joint is often the first joint affected
2. Osteoarthritis
3. Calcaneal fracture(subtalar joint is usually disrupted, causing the joint to become arthritic).
4. Rheumatoid arthritis: Primarily attacks joint tissues, often the ankle and foot
5. Instability of the ST joint.
6. Subtalar dislocationoccurs through the disruption of 2 separate bony articulations, the talonavicular and talocalcaneal joints

Disorders in which the subtalar joint is indirectly affected or affected as a result of another defect or injury to the foot or ankle:

1. Pes cavus/Pes planus
2. Chronic Ankle Instability
3. Tarsal coalition
4. Sinus tarsi syndrome

References[edit|edit source]