Subtalar joint

A vital joint located in the foot, playing a crucial role in movement and stability.

The subtalar joint is the joint located between the talus and the calcaneus (heel bone) in the foot. It is a synovial joint that allows for inversion and eversion of the foot, which are essential movements for walking, running, and maintaining balance. This joint is pivotal in adapting to various terrains and absorbing shock during locomotion.

Terminologia Anatomica

articulatio subtalaris

System

Skeletal system

Function

The primary functions of the subtalar joint are to allow rotation of the foot about the ankle, providing a critical range of motion that supports various activities such as walking, sprinting, and jumping. Inversion (rolling the foot inward) and eversion (rolling the foot outward) are essential for maintaining balance during dynamic movements and adapting to uneven surfaces. This joint also plays a significant role in the absorption of impact forces, reducing stress on the tibia and other structures in the leg. By facilitating these movements and shock-absorbing functions, the subtalar joint contributes to an overall efficient gait and stability during physical activities.

Location

The subtalar joint is located beneath the ankle joint, specifically between the inferior surface of the talus and the superior surface of the calcaneus. This positioning allows for a unique range of motion different from the movements at the ankle itself. Situated in the posterior aspect of the foot, it functions as a central pivot point for various foot motions. It is accessible and palpated at the lateral aspect of the heel when the foot is in neutral position. The subtalar joint operates in conjunction with other joints in the foot and ankle, ensuring a fluid and functional integration for mobility.

Did You Know?

The subtalar joint can sustain significant forces during activities, with studies showing it absorbs a large proportion of the ground reaction forces during running.
Injuries to the subtalar joint, such as sprains, can lead to complications affecting overall foot mechanics.
The subtalar joint's ability to invert and evert allows the foot to adapt rapidly to changes in surface inclines, enhancing agility.
Foot orthotics are often used to correct subtalar joint misalignment, improving overall foot function and comfort.