Final answer:
The term 'Contact arch' may refer to the arches of the foot making contact with the ground during movement. These arches are important in absorbing shock and distributing body weight to aid in walking, running, or jumping.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Contact arch is not readily defined in common academic or professional terminology. It could possibly be an informal term related to the arches of the foot. When speaking about the arches of the foot, as the foot comes into contact with the ground during movement, such as walking, running, or jumping, the arches are crucial for absorbing the impact of the body weight. This shock-absorbing ability of the foot's arches is significant, as it not only reduces the shock that passes into the lower limb and body but also helps in energy absorption and distribution during the gait cycle.
The foot contains multiple arches, namely the transverse arch, the medial longitudinal arch, and the lateral longitudinal arch. The transverse arch, formed by the cuneiform bones and the bases of the metatarsal bones, assists in distributing body weight from side to side within the foot.