POSTERIOR MEMBER. 



241 



serve a suitable and efficacious opening of the coxo-femoral joint, it is 

 no less obligatory that it should give a proper direction, as well as a 



Fig. 72. 



wide opening, to the angle which it forms with the leg. Observation 

 demonstrates, in fact, that the femoro-tibial angle always has a wider 

 opening in rapid motors ; this is the factor which prevents the tibia 

 from assuming an excessive inclination which would place it in a posi- 

 tion disadvantageous to its movements of extension and flexion and 

 its effectiveness in progression. 



We therefore believe that a somewhat oblique thigh fulfils all these 

 diverse requirements. It is the kind of thigh which is best for long 

 strides, extensive and effective propulsive movements, and a normal 



16 



