They give the foot its shape by holding the bones in position, and expand and contract to impart movement to the bones and joints. Other smaller muscles enable the toes to lift and curl. In the foot there are elastic tissues that connect the muscles to the bones and joints. The largest and strongest tendon of the foot is the Achilles tendon, which extends from the calf muscle of the leg to the heel. Its strength and joint function facilitate running, jumping, walking up stairs or raising the body onto the toes.
Ligaments hold the tendons in place and stabilize the joints.
The longest of these, the plantar fascia, forms the arch on the sole of the foot from the heel to the toes. By stretching and contracting, it allows the arch to curve or flatten, providing balance and giving the foot strength to push off and initiate the act of walking. Medial ligaments on the inside and lateral ligaments on outside of the foot provide stability and enable the foot to move up and down. Skin, blood vessels and nerves help give the foot its shape and durability, provide cell regeneration and essential muscular nourishment, and control its many, varied movements. Discover the best ways to get information from this site.