Foot surgery in Germany. Historical burden or scientific challenge?

In Germany foot surgery was established in the late nineteenth century. To correct foot deformities due to paralytic disorders, i.e., poliomyelitis, a nd congenital deformities, different types of tenotomies and arthrodeses we re developed to obtain plantigrade weight-bearing and to avoid external ort hosis. A description of surgical techniques during the last century is pres ented in detail. During those years resection arthroplasties for hallux val gus were common,although some authors recommended osteotomies of the first metatarsal as joint-sparing techniques. Nowadays, further knowledge in etio logy, pathology, and biomechanics have effected the therapeutic algorithm i n hallux valgus. Nevertheless, discussion about this topic has not come to an end. In 1991 the German Foot and Ankle Society (D.A.F.) was founded. Educational courses to improve surgical skills as well as clinical workshops were succ essfully established. A marked increase in membership and a broad internati onal acceptance confirm these activities.