Evolutionary aspects of foot disorders

Abstract

The modern human foot can be viewed as the basic prehensile grasping foot of humans' arboreal ancestors, modified by the need for a propulsive lever to serve bipedal walking. The structure of the human foot serves its function remarkably well. However, in spite of its evolutionary success, the foot remains susceptible to clinical disorders that can be related to its development from nonhuman ancestors. An understanding of the evolution of the foot offers a different perspective on some common human foot disorders, and can provide a framework for planning the treatment of those disorders.