Which types of motion occurs in the talocrural joint?

The talocrural joint, commonly known as the ankle joint, primarily facilitates two types of motion: dorsiflexion and plantar flexion. Dorsiflexion is the movement where the foot is lifted upwards towards the shin, while plantar flexion involves pointing the toes downwards away from the shin. These movements are essential for various activities such as walking, running, and jumping, allowing for a proper range of motion and stability.

Understanding the specific functions of the talocrural joint is vital for multiple areas in orthotics and prosthetics, as these movements play a crucial role in gait analysis and the design of devices aimed at improving mobility. Other types of motion, such as inversion and eversion, mainly occur at the subtalar joint, while circumduction and rotation are not movements specific to the talocrural joint. Flexion and extension are terminology typically used in reference to other joints, such as the knee or elbow, rather than the ankle joint.