What is the primary mechanism of the Murphy procedure?

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Multiple Choice

What is the primary mechanism of the Murphy procedure?

Explanation:
The Murphy procedure works by changing the line of pull of the Achilles tendon to alter the ankle’s lever arm. By advancing the tendon’s attachment anteriorly on the heel, the Achilles’ moment arm about the ankle is shortened. A shorter lever arm means the same muscle force produces less plantarflexion torque, allowing better dorsiflexion and realignment of the hindfoot without lengthening the tendon. This approach focuses on repositioning the tendon insertion to reduce plantarflexion torque directly, rather than simply lengthening the tendon or using a tendon transfer or joint fusion.

The Murphy procedure works by changing the line of pull of the Achilles tendon to alter the ankle’s lever arm. By advancing the tendon’s attachment anteriorly on the heel, the Achilles’ moment arm about the ankle is shortened. A shorter lever arm means the same muscle force produces less plantarflexion torque, allowing better dorsiflexion and realignment of the hindfoot without lengthening the tendon. This approach focuses on repositioning the tendon insertion to reduce plantarflexion torque directly, rather than simply lengthening the tendon or using a tendon transfer or joint fusion.

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