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💀anatomy and physiology i review

Medial Longitudinal Arch

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The medial longitudinal arch is one of the three main arches that make up the human foot. It runs along the medial (inner) side of the foot, from the calcaneus (heel bone) to the heads of the metatarsal bones, and is responsible for absorbing shock and distributing weight during various activities.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The medial longitudinal arch is the most prominent of the three arches in the foot, and it bears the majority of the body's weight during standing and walking.
  2. The height and flexibility of the medial longitudinal arch are important for shock absorption, balance, and efficient energy transfer during locomotion.
  3. Weakening or collapsing of the medial longitudinal arch can lead to conditions such as flat feet (pes planus) or fallen arches, which can cause pain and impair foot function.
  4. The medial longitudinal arch is supported by various ligaments, tendons, and muscles, including the posterior tibial tendon, which is essential for maintaining the arch's integrity.
  5. The shape and height of the medial longitudinal arch can vary among individuals, and this variation can be influenced by factors such as genetics, age, and physical activity levels.

Review Questions

  • Describe the role of the medial longitudinal arch in the overall structure and function of the foot.
    • The medial longitudinal arch plays a crucial role in the structure and function of the foot. It acts as a shock absorber, distributing the body's weight evenly across the foot during various activities. The arch also provides stability and flexibility, allowing the foot to adapt to uneven surfaces and transfer energy efficiently during locomotion. Additionally, the medial longitudinal arch helps maintain the foot's natural curvature, which is essential for proper balance and biomechanics.
  • Explain how the weakening or collapse of the medial longitudinal arch can lead to specific foot-related conditions.
    • The weakening or collapse of the medial longitudinal arch, known as flat feet or pes planus, can lead to several foot-related conditions. When the arch loses its normal curvature, the foot becomes less stable and more prone to excessive pronation (inward rolling of the foot). This can result in pain, discomfort, and decreased shock absorption, potentially leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and even knee or hip pain due to the altered biomechanics of the lower limb. Maintaining the integrity of the medial longitudinal arch is crucial for overall foot health and function.
  • Analyze the factors that can influence the shape and height of the medial longitudinal arch, and discuss how these factors may impact an individual's foot health and performance.
    • The shape and height of the medial longitudinal arch can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and physical activity levels. Individuals with a naturally higher or more flexible arch may have an advantage in activities that require agility and shock absorption, such as running or jumping. Conversely, those with a lower or more rigid arch may be more prone to conditions like flat feet, which can impair foot function and lead to pain or discomfort. Additionally, factors like muscle imbalances, injury, or changes in body weight can also affect the arch's structure and contribute to the development of foot-related problems. Understanding the factors that influence the medial longitudinal arch is crucial for designing appropriate interventions, such as arch supports or exercises, to maintain optimal foot health and performance.