calcaneonaviculare

The calcaneonavicular ligament, also known as the plantar calcaneonavicular ligament or spring ligament, is a strong band on the plantar aspect of the foot. It extends from the sustentaculum tali of the calcaneus to the navicular bone, bridging the hindfoot and midfoot regions. The ligament is commonly described as having deep and superficial components that reinforce its attachment and contribute to the stability of the medial arch.

Functionally, the calcaneonavicular ligament supports the head of the talus and helps maintain the medial longitudinal arch during weight-bearing and locomotion. It plays a role in the windlass mechanism of the foot, stabilizing the arch as the toes are dorsiflexed during push-off. Because of its position, it is an important part of the foot’s passive support system, working in concert with other ligaments and the plantar aponeurosis.

Clinical considerations include pathologies related to spring ligament dysfunction. Degenerative or traumatic changes can contribute to or accompany adult-acquired flatfoot deformity, due to weakened arch support. Rupture or severe insufficiency is uncommon but may occur with significant trauma or progressive deformity. Imaging modalities such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging can assess ligament integrity, thickness, and associated soft-tissue or osseous adaptations.

Management ranges from conservative to surgical. Nonoperative approaches include activity modification, orthotic support, and physical therapy to strengthen surrounding structures. In persistent cases with functional collapse of the arch, surgical options may involve reconstruction or augmentation of the spring ligament to restore arch stability and improve foot mechanics.