During dorsiflexion, if the mechanical ankle axis is positioned above the anatomical ankle axis, where do the pressures on the leg occur?

When the mechanical ankle axis is aligned above the anatomical ankle axis during dorsiflexion, the resulting pressures on the leg would indeed occur in both the anterior-distal and posterior-proximal areas. This situation arises due to the altered biomechanics of the ankle joint and how it interacts with the foot and leg during movement.

In dorsiflexion, when the mechanical axis is positioned higher than the anatomical axis, the ankle joint experiences a change in the distribution of forces. This results in increased pressure in the anterior parts of the leg, particularly towards the distal (or lower) end near the toes, as well as pressure towards the posterior (or back) part of the proximal leg, near the calf. The relationship between these two points indicates that as the foot moves into dorsiflexion, both pressures are engaged as a response to this altered alignment.

Understanding this dynamic is crucial for designing orthotic devices that accommodate the physiological changes during movement and ensuring proper function and comfort for the user.