PC PC Biomechanics & Orthotics 2

Question 1

Which condition is characterized by limited ankle dorsiflexion and is a major biomechanical contributor to plantar fasciitis and forefoot overload?

Accepted Answer

Equinus deformity

Answer

Equinus deformity (limited ankle dorsiflexion <10°) forces the foot to compensate through excessive pronation or early heel rise, overloading the plantar fascia and forefoot.

Question 2

In gait analysis, what does the term 'toe-out angle' (foot progression angle) describe?

Accepted Answer

The angle between the long axis of the foot and the direction of travel

Answer

The foot progression angle (toe-out angle) measures how much the foot is rotated outward relative to the line of walking, which reflects rotational alignment of the entire lower limb.

Question 3

What is the role of the windlass mechanism in foot biomechanics?

Accepted Answer

Dorsiflexion of the hallux tightens the plantar fascia, raising the medial arch and supinating the foot for propulsion

Answer

The windlass mechanism occurs when hallux dorsiflexion during propulsion tightens the plantar fascia around the metatarsal head, raising the arch and supinating the subtalar joint for a rigid lever.

Question 4

A patient is diagnosed with tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction (PTTD). Which deformity pattern is most associated with this condition?

Accepted Answer

Flatfoot (pes planovalgus) with heel valgus and forefoot abduction

Answer

Progressive PTTD leads to loss of medial arch support, causing a flexible flatfoot with heel valgus and forefoot abduction (the 'too many toes' sign).

Question 5

Which orthotic posting is used to correct a forefoot varus deformity?

Accepted Answer

Medial forefoot post (raises the medial side of the forefoot)

Answer

Forefoot varus (medial forefoot inverted relative to rearfoot in STJ neutral) is corrected with a medial forefoot post that fills the gap under the medial column.

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PC PC Biomechanics & Orthotics 2