Finite element method (FEM) has become an effective tool for biomechanical researches because of its high efficiency, accuracy and repeatability. Due to the complex anatomical structure and motion characteristics of foot and ankle, FEM can solve the problems that are difficult to be solved in real experiments with the help of powerful simulation modeling and data calculation ability, which has unique advantages and has been widely used. In this paper, the literatures on foot and ankle biomechanics using FEM at home and abroad in recent five years were summarized, and the following 4 aspects were reviewed: biomechanical analysis of foot and ankle under different motion states, researches on tissue characteristics, clinical treatment analysis, and researches on orthosis and shoes, so as to provide theoretical references for the study of foot and ankle biomechanics, as well as new ideas for the application and development of FEM in the field of foot and ankle biomechanics in the future.