The basic foot structure is comprised of three sections:
- Forefoot: The forefoot area includes the five phalanges and their connecting metatarsals, as well as the ball of the foot. The phalanges are the toes, and the metatarsals are the long bones that connect to the phalanges. The big toe has two bones and one joint; the four smaller toes each have three bones and two joints.
- Midfoot: The midfoot area is the arch, which is formed by five tarsal bones. The plantar fascia ligament runs along the arch, connecting the midfoot to the forefoot and hindfoot, along with other muscles.
- Hindfoot: The hindfoot area connects the midfoot and ankle and is made up of three joints, as well as the heel bone. The heel is the largest bone in the foot and is protected by a fatty pad that absorbs shock and reduces pressure. Where the hindfoot and ankle meet, the joints form a hinge that allows for up and down motion of the foot.
Some of the most common reasons for foot and ankle problems are injuries; congenital foot deformities that occur at birth and can be hereditary; infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral); arthritis affecting one or multiple joints; tumors and abnormal growths; and issues that arise from ill-fitting or improper footwear, stress, or mechanical changes.