The normal capsular pattern of inversion with plantar flexion, adduction, and supination describes which joint?

• A. Hip joint
• B. Midtarsal joint
• C. Tibiofemoral joint
• D. Superior tibiofibular joint

Answer: (B)

Joints have characteristic capsular patterns that reveal how the capsule and surrounding soft tissues restrict movement. For the midtarsal joint, the normal capsular pattern is inversion with plantar flexion, adduction, and supination. When the joint capsule tightens, these motions are the ones that become most restricted and tend to occur together as a single directional limitation. In practical terms, inversion is a predominant motion at the midtarsal joint, and plantar flexion often accompanies it, with adduction completing the supinated alignment of the foot.

This pattern fits the midtarsal joint because it governs the complex movements of the forefoot and subtalar region, where inversion and the associated combined motions are functionally linked. Other joints have different standard patterns—such as the hip with flexion, abduction, and external rotation; the knee with greater restriction of flexion than extension; and the superior tibiofibular joint lacking a single classic capsular pattern. Therefore, the described pattern points to the midtarsal joint.