Subtalar Neutral
The position of the subtalar joint in which the joint is neither pronated nor supinated, used as the reference position for casting and evaluating foot orthoses.
Full Definition
Subtalar neutral is the theoretical resting position of the subtalar joint at which it is in neither a pronated nor a supinated alignment, traditionally determined by palpation of the talar head. It has historically served as the standard reference position for capturing foot impressions during orthotic casting and for conducting biomechanical assessments. In editorial contexts, editors may encounter the term written as 'subtalar neutral position,' 'STN,' or 'neutral position of the subtalar joint'; all refer to the same concept. It is important not to confuse subtalar neutral with 'relaxed calcaneal stance position' (RCSP), which is the natural standing position of the heel and differs from the theoretical neutral. Some contemporary orthotics literature questions the clinical validity of subtalar neutral as a casting reference, so editors should not editorially substitute newer terminology for older clinical records.
Usage
Usage note: Retain the original term when editing historical clinical notes; do not update to newer alternative frameworks without author instruction.
In Context
- "The cast was taken with the foot held in subtalar neutral to ensure the orthosis would function in the biomechanically optimal position." — Orthotic fabrication record
- "Do not substitute 'subtalar neutral' with 'neutral position' without qualification, as the latter term lacks clinical specificity in orthotics contexts." — Editorial style note