What should be assessed to determine weight distribution in the feet?

To determine weight distribution in the feet, assessing the position of the calcaneus is particularly relevant because the calcaneus, or heel bone, plays a crucial role in how weight is transferred through the foot. The alignment of the calcaneus affects the overall posture and balance of the body. When the calcaneus is correctly positioned, it helps to maintain an even distribution of weight across the foot, influencing not just the foot itself but also the entire kinetic chain leading up to the knees, hips, and beyond.

By evaluating the position of the calcaneus—whether it is everted, inverted, or neutral—practitioners can gain valuable insights into how weight is distributed during standing, walking, or performing exercises. This knowledge is essential for adjusting movements and exercises to promote better alignment and prevent injuries.

Other factors like foot width, arch stability, and calf strength do contribute to the overall function of the foot but are not as directly tied to assessing weight distribution. Foot width may indicate foot type, arch stability can show potential for flat-footedness or high arches, and calf strength relates to muscle function and movement dynamics, but the position of the calcaneus is a more immediate indicator of how weight is managed by the foot’s