Most think the main movement of the ankle is rocking up and down, actually there is a twisting component involved. As the foot reaches mid-stance, it becomes stable on the ground in a normal foot. The Tibia, which is the leg bone, will rotate because of the bone orientation between the tibia and femur at the knee. The ankle design allows this rotation with the hind foot.
This will provide additional stability and allows the foot to load in preparation for push-off during walking. An unstable ankle joint could allow too much rotation and cause additional stress on the midfoot, knee, hip or back. Good stable range of motion, strength and balance along with good walking mechanics will allow the ankle to rotate properly so the foot can perform as designed during the gait cycle.
I’m Physical Therapist Steve Taylor of Southern Physical and Occupational Therapy Services
Moving You to a Pain Free Lifestyle
