Pathomechanics of structural foot deformities

This article presents the most common structural foot deformities encountered in clinical practice. The deformities are defined, and the expected compensations at the subtalar joint (STJ) are described. The theoretical consequences of the STJ compensations on proximal and distal tissues are presented. A biomechan-ical rationale for certain tissue disorders is described. The possible effects of abnormal STJ compensation on osseous development are briefly discussed. Key Words: Foot deformities; Gait; Kinesiology/biomechanics, lower extremity; Lower extremity, ankle and foot; Subtalar joint. From an anatomical perspective, the foot is a complex group of bones and muscles. The foot is a marvelous structure when viewed from the perspective of biomechanical function. The foot must perform diverse functions at specific times during the gait cycle. Other articles in this issue discuss in detail the anatomy and biomechanical function of the foot. From a practical standpoint, the foot must 1) adapt to th