364 
A. LIATJTARt) 
so great, the phenomena that take place in it, either norm¬ 
ally or pathologically, are in great part so obscure, that if the an¬ 
atomy of this organ is well known its physiological functions are 
not yet well defined, and its pathological history remains in¬ 
complete. We need no better proof of this than the diversity 
of opinions given on the nature of the diseases of the foot, their 
etiology and even their treatment. 
Therefore it is not inopportune to return to the subject. 
To present some considerations of normal physiology, 
which will be the criterion of the pathological theories relating to 
some diseases of the foot, and which we will substitute for 
those already admitted, because they answer better for scientific 
exigencies, and because they are corroborated by practical results : 
such is the object of this article. 
Heretofore the atrophy of the plantar cushion has been con¬ 
sidered as the consequence of the contraction of the wall. We 
believe that this is an error and that the cause was mistaken for 
the effect. To try and correct this assertion, such is our object. 
I. 
OF THE REPARTITION OF THE PRESSURE AT REST. 
The pressure transmitted to the inferior extremity of the leg 
by the metacarpal or metatarsal bone, which is the effect 
of the weight of the body alone in the standing position, or of 
this weight increased with the effort of impulsion during progres¬ 
sion, is divided at the fetlock joint, in consequence of the 
-change of direction of the end of the leg. This division 
gives rise to two pressures or new powers: one which takes the 
direction of the phalangial axis; the other which is thrown upon 
the posterior tendinous apparatus. 
A.—This one, to be able to resist the action of the power 
which acts upon it, offers an anatomical disposition which insures for 
it an extreme solidity, a great force of resistance. Let us, in 
relation to this fact, look at some anatomico-physiological peculi¬ 
arities. 
In the fore, as in the hind leg, the tendon of the perforans 
