Abstract:

Objective To observe the plantar aponeurosis and to provide relevant anatomic data for clinical application. Methods Fifty formalin fixed feet were dissected and the superficial layer of the plantar fascia was observed. The thickness and length of the medial and lateral fibrous bundles at the middle part of the plantar aponeurosis that ends at the head of the metatarsal bones (plantar fascia) were measured. The thickness of the middle part of the plantar fascia was examined.Results The fibrous structure of the superficial layer of the plantar aponeurosis mainly participated in the formation of the anterolateral plantar fat pad, and formed a spiral fibrous-lamina structure similar to the plantar cleavage lines. The fibrous structure of the superficial layer of the plantar aponeurosis at the heel was relatively sparse. The thickness of the middle part was (2.168±0.1139) mm. The thickness of the fibre bundle of the plantar fascia at the medial and lateral side of the first toe bones was (1.33±0.08)mm, and (1.46±0.07)mm, which was significantly larger than that at the 2-5 toe, P<0.05. The thickness of the fibres at the medial and lateral side of the fifth toe bones was (0.29±0.02) mm, (0.37±0.04) mm, which was significantly smaller than that of the 1-4 toe,P<0.05.Conclusion The superficial layer of the plantar aponeurosis mainly participates in the formation of the anterolateral plantar fat pad; the deep layer of the plantar aponeurosis is crucial in maintaining the stability of the instep, which contributes to avoiding the compression of the common plantar digital nerves and the plantar vessels of toes when exerted with force.