Bahloul, A. <br/><br/>
The human foot: Decrypted functions 

 -  2024.<br/>							 
<br/><br/> 94 
<br/><br/> The human foot is a unique structure, well-designed to allow bipedalism and all forms of ambulation; it is strong enough to support the weight of our body. In addition, it gives us our excellent ability to walk, run, or jump, by acting as a veritable spring. The foot’s static and dynamic roles may seem trivial, automatic, and straightforward. But what about the other functions in which the foot might be involved? This article aims to uncover the lesser-known role of the foot, describing the various tasks in which this podal extremity is potentially implicated. The foot is a very sensitive neurosensor, transmitting all the information it gathers—thermal, tactile, vibratory, and, above all, proprioceptive sensations—to the brain. Using this information, combined with information from other sources, the brain adapts an appropriate postural response. The sole of the foot can be considered as a true peripheral heart. This function is ensured by the plantar venous sole of Lejars, which plays an essential role in the venous return of the lower limbs. The feet can also be used to compensate for the hands in certain pathological conditions of the upper limbs. In addition, a trained foot can play a specialized technical role, as is the case with football players, dancers, soldiers, or even in an erotic context. Clinically, the foot holds a very evocative semiological value. Some pathologies often begin with the foot. Some others have specific manifestations in the foot. In forensic podiatry, plantar prints are often collected at crimes scenes and help identify those present. Though long underestimated, the foot is versatile, and its field of action seems vast. It should not be considered as a segment of the limb, but as a real organ, generating force and therefore movement, and fulfilling many functions.