SYMMETRICAL ANALYSIS: AN X-RAY STUDY OF TALUS WITH ITS PHYSIOLOGICAL CORRELATION.

Out of all the bones in the foot involved in movement, talus has constantly formed the sole link between the leg and the rest of the foot. Differences have been noted between or within body structures within an individual (intra-individual variation) with regard to the size and shape. Talus helps in receiving the body weight and transmitting it to the plantar below. The dome of the talus articulates with the tibia and fibula, and has a key role in ankle motion and also supports the axial load during weight bearing. Aim: To study the talar symmetry and to identify the incidence, possible etiological factors and its clinical significance. Materials and methods:This study included 96 healthy normal subjects whose age and sex are known who were scheduled for anteroposterior and lateral plain ankle radiographs because of clinical hind foot symptoms. Measurements such as length, breadth, height and volume were noted down for a period of 2 years to the Department of Radiology, K.M.C. Mangalore. Result: In this study the measurement of right tali were higher than left except for breath of the body of the tali. Conclusion: The human foot is called upon to support the weight of the body when standing and to provide a smooth functioning interface between the body and the ground during gait. Its function depends on relatively complex mechanical interactions of numerous small bones; pain free motion of small joints, an intact soft tissue envelope, including the plantar pad; and an appropriate secondary feedback 32.