What are the primary movements of the subtalar joint?

The subtalar joint, located between the talus and the calcaneus in the foot, primarily facilitates inversion and eversion movements. Inversion refers to the movement where the sole of the foot turns inward, while eversion is the movement where the sole turns outward. These movements are crucial for adjusting the foot’s orientation to uneven surfaces, allowing for better balance and stability.

The other options describe movements associated with different joints or parts of the foot. Dorsiflexion and plantarflexion are movements that occur mainly at the ankle joint, not at the subtalar joint. Flexion and extension of the toes relate to the metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal joints, while rotation and abduction do not specifically apply to the movements performed at the subtalar joint. Understanding that the subtalar joint's primary function is to allow inversion and eversion helps clarify its role in overall foot mechanics and mobility.