General Principles and Basics

The human foot and ankle serve as the foundation of our upright posture and weight-bearing mobility. This chapter emphasizes the importance of a thorough clinical examination when faced with foot and ankle pathology. A meticulous examination is essential for accurate diagnosis and the formulation of effective treatment strategies for foot and ankle pathologies. Diagnostic tests and imaging should complement, not replace, clinical assessment. The chapter encourages the development of personalized examination methods while highlighting the importance of not overlooking critical examination points.