Talus
1. [noun] the talus is an important bone of the ankle joint that is located between the calcaneus (heel bone) and the fibula and tibia in the lower leg. The shape of the bone is irregular, somewhat comparable to a turtle's hump. The key function of this bone is to form a connection between the leg and the foot so that body weight may be transferred from the ankle to the leg, enabling a person to walk while maintaining balance. The bone also helps in the movements of the ankle, and together with the calcaneus it facilitates the movements of the foot. Any injury to this critical bone may hamper the movements of the ankle and foot. A major fracture in the bone can cause serious impediment to a person's ability to walk or stand. Compared to most other bones, the talus is deficient in its supply of oxygenated blood. As a result, it takes a long time to repair following a serious injury
Source: https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/talus-bone
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the talus assist in everyday walking and balance in the foot?
During walking, the talus acts like a vital pivot between the leg and foot, helping to transfer body weight and maintain smooth balance while moving with each step.
In what way can the talus be compared to a hinge in the ankle joint?
Similar to a door hinge, the talus connects the lower leg to the foot. Its unique shape enables the ankle joint to pivot and support varied movements during regular activities.
What is a common misconception about the role of the talus in foot structure?
Some assume the talus is merely a support bone. In reality, its specialized design is crucial for distributing weight and facilitating coordinated ankle movements.