Final answer:
At initial contact, the foot is typically in a supinated position. This supination provides stability and impact absorption during the walking gait cycle. Supination refers to movements that raise the outer edge of the foot and move the sole more toward the midline of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
At initial contact, typically during a normal walking gait cycle, the foot is supinated. The supinated position of the foot can be described as a combination of ankle plantar flexion, inversion of the foot, and adduction – movements that, together, raise the outer edge of the foot and lower the inner edge, such that the sole of the foot faces more towards the midline of the body.
In anatomical position, the forearm is said to be supinated when the palm faces anteriorly. Similarly, supination of the foot refers to the motion that brings the sole of the foot to face more toward the midline – this is a natural part of the foot's movement during the initial contact, as it helps provide stability and absorb impact.
Pronation and supination are not just limited to the feet; they also describe movements of the forearms. While pronation involves rotating the forearm so that the palm faces backward, supination is the opposite motion.