The spelling of the anatomical term "sustentaculum tali" is based on its Latin origins. Its pronunciation is suh-sten-tuh-kuh-lum tah-lee, as indicated by the IPA phonetic transcription. "Sustentaculum" means "support" and "tali" refers to the talus bone in the ankle joint. The sustentaculum tali is a bony ledge on the calcaneus bone that supports the talus bone. This anatomical structure is important for maintaining the stability and functionality of the ankle joint.
The sustentaculum tali is a term used in human anatomy to refer to a bony prominence found in the foot. It is specifically located on the medial side of the calcaneus bone, which is the large bone that forms the heel of the foot. The term "sustentaculum tali" literally translates to "support of the talus" in Latin.
This structure serves as an important attachment point for several ligaments in the foot. It is shaped like a shelf or ledge, providing support and stability to the talus bone, which is one of the bones of the ankle joint. The talus bone is responsible for transferring weight and forces from the leg to the foot during walking, running, and other weight-bearing activities.
The sustentaculum tali can be palpated on the inside of the foot, just below the ankle joint. Its position is crucial for proper foot function, as it helps maintain the alignment of the foot and ankle bones. This bony prominence also plays a role in preventing excessive inward rolling (pronation) or outward rolling (supination) of the foot during movement.
In summary, the sustentaculum tali is a prominent bony structure located on the medial side of the calcaneus bone in the foot. Its main function is to provide support and stability to the talus bone, facilitating proper weight-bearing and movement of the foot.
Support of the anklebone; a bracket-like lateral projection from the inner surface of the os calcis, the upper surface of which presents a facet for articulation with the astragalus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "sustentaculum tali" comes from Latin and translates to "support of the ankle".
- "Sustentaculum" derives from the Latin word "sustentare", meaning "to support" or "to sustain". It is a combination of the prefix "sub-" (meaning "under") and the verb "sustenere" (meaning "to hold up" or "to sustain").
- "Tali" is the genitive form of the Latin noun "talus", which refers to the ankle or the anklebone. It is also used to describe dice in certain contexts due to their resemblance to the anklebone of an animal.