What is the plantar aponeurosis and what does it do?

The plantar aponeurosis is the central part of the deep fascia in the sole, shaped like a triangle. It attaches to the heel and splits into bands for the toes, serving key functions like fixing the skin, providing muscle origin, protecting neurovascular bundles, and supporting the longitudinal arch.

What nerves supply sensation to the sole of the foot?

Sensation is provided by three main nerves: medial calcaneal branches (S1) from the tibial nerve supply the heel, medial plantar nerve (L4) supplies the anteromedial sole and medial 3½ toes, and lateral plantar nerve (L5) supplies the anterolateral sole and lateral 1½ toes.

What is plantar fasciitis and what causes it?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar aponeurosis due to overuse or stress, such as standing for long hours. It commonly causes pain under the heel.

How is the skin of the sole adapted for its function?

The skin is thick, hairless, and strongly bound to the deep fascia via fibrous bands. It has thickened areas at weight-bearing zones like the heel and ball of the foot, and contains abundant sweat glands for grip and shock absorption.

What are the main components of the deep fascia in the sole?

The deep fascia consists of three regions: central (plantar aponeurosis), medial plantar fascia, and lateral plantar fascia. It includes specializations like the plantar aponeurosis, deep transverse metatarsal ligaments, and fibrous flexor sheaths.

What is the role of the superficial fascia in the sole?

The superficial fascia is mainly fibrofatty tissue with fibrous septa that anchor the skin to the deep fascia. It thickens at pressure zones to form cushions over the heel, metatarsal heads, and digit pulps, aiding in shock absorption.

What are fibrous flexor sheaths and what is their function?

Fibrous flexor sheaths are strong fibrous tunnels from the metatarsal heads to the distal phalanges that enclose long flexor tendons. They function to prevent tendon bowstringing during flexion, similar to sheaths in the fingers.

Sole of Foot – Skin, Fascia & Plantar Aponeurosis

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