General Examination of the Foot

Physical examination remains a critical diagnostic tool for assessing the foot and ankle. This chapter aims to provide a systematic approach to performing a clinical examination of the foot. A thorough physical examination should first look for any abnormalities by a thorough inspection, examine structural integrity through palpation, mobility, and strength testing while also considering epidemiologic factors such as age, gender, employment, and activities. With this information in hand, physicians can individualize the history, physical examination, and treatment of patients with foot and ankle problems.