Subtalarleddet

Subtalarleddet, or subtalarjoint, is a synovial plane joint located in the hindfoot between the talus and the calcaneus. It forms part of the hindfoot’s triple joint complex and primarily allows movement of the hindfoot relative to the leg, contributing to foot adaptability during gait.

Anatomy and structures: The joint surfaces involve multiple facets on the talus (anterior, middle, and posterior) articulating with corresponding facets on the calcaneus. The joint capsule is reinforced by ligaments, among which the interosseous talocalcaneal ligament within the tarsal sinus acts as the principal stabilizer. Additional supports include the posterior talocalcaneal (cervical) ligament and other surrounding ligaments that help maintain alignment and limit excessive motion.

Movement and function: The subtalar joint enables inversion and eversion of the hindfoot, with its oblique articulation allowing pronation and supination during the stance phase of walking. This motion helps the foot adapt to uneven surfaces and contributes to the overall mechanics of the lower limb, working in concert with adjacent joints such as the talonavicular joint as part of the hindfoot complex.

Clinical relevance: Disorders of the subtalar joint include arthritis, focal injuries such as subtalar dislocations, and coalitions between the talus and calcaneus that reduce joint motion. Subtalar instability or chronic pain may be managed with conservative measures or, in refractory cases, subtalar arthrodesis (fusion) to relieve pain and stabilize the hindfoot, at the expense of joint motion.