Question

Portion of the foot made up of the calcaneus and talus

Answer 1

The portion of the foot made up of the calcaneus and talus is called the hindfoot.

Explanation

The hindfoot, comprised of the calcaneus and talus bones, is a critical structural element of the foot. The calcaneus, commonly known as the heel bone, is the largest bone in the foot, providing support and stability. It forms the foundation of the hindfoot and connects to the talus bone, which sits above the calcaneus.

The talus bone is a key connector between the foot and the leg, forming part of the ankle joint. Its unique structure allows for a wide range of movement, facilitating actions like pointing the toes downward (plantar flexion) and bringing the toes upward (dorsiflexion).

Together, the calcaneus and talus work in harmony to support the weight of the body, absorb shock during movement, and maintain balance. The hindfoot plays a pivotal role in mobility, allowing for walking, running, and various weight-bearing activities by providing a stable base while also enabling flexibility and adaptability to different terrains.

Understanding the significance of the hindfoot sheds light on its crucial role in the biomechanics of the foot, impacting overall movement and functionality. Its proper functioning is essential for maintaining a healthy and mobile lower extremity.

Answer 2

The calcaneus and talus are two crucial bones in the foot that interact to form part of the ankle joint and support the body's weight. The calcaneus is the heel bone, while the talus sits above it and articulates with the bones of the lower leg.

Step-by-step explanation:

The portion of the foot made up of the calcaneus and talus is key to how the foot functions in movement and bearing the weight of the body. The talus is the most superior of the tarsal bones, which articulates with the tibia and fibula to form the ankle joint, transferring body weight from the lower leg into the foot. The calcaneus, or heel bone, is the largest bone in the foot. It articulates with the talus and rests on the ground, supporting the weight transferred from the tibia through the talus. A special feature of the calcaneus is the sustentaculum tali, a bony extension that provides additional support for the medial side of the talus bone.