Ankle Anatomy

Understanding ankle anatomy and the structures that are most commonly injured will help you prevent and treat common ankle sprains and injuries. Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries during sports participation.

Ankle Bones

The ankle joint is made up of 3 bones that articulate (touch) with each other. The tibia, fibula, and talus.

The tibia is the weight bearing bone of the lower leg...also known as the "shin bone". The fibula is the smaller low leg bone, on the outside of your leg. Both the tibia and fibula extend down to the ankle, and their ends create the "ankle bones" on the inside and outside of the ankle.

The talus sits between the tibia and the fibula, and creates the ankle "mortise". This joint acts like a hinge joint, allowing you to move your foot up and down.

Other bones important in ankle anatomy include the calcaneus (heel bone), the tarsals, metatarsals, and phalanges (toes).

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Ankle and Foot Ligaments

Alongwith bones, anatomy also includes the ligaments. The primary ligaments of the ankle are the medial (inside) and lateral (outside) ligaments.

The lateral ankle ligaments include three ligaments that connect the fibula, talus, and calcaneus. These ligaments are most commonly injured during an ankle sprain.

The medial ligament, called the deltoid ligament, is much thicker and stronger than the lateral ligaments and is not injured as often. Its connects the tibia with the talus and calcaneus.

Other ligaments connect the other bones in the foot, however, they are not commonly injured with sports injuries.

Ankle Muscles

The last part of the anatomy is the muscles. Muscles that originate (or start) at the low leg insert (or attach) to the bones in the ankle and foot and help produce motion at the ankle and foot. Muscles also help to provide stability during activities.

The calf muscles, the gastroc and soleus, allow for pointing of the foot, as well as lifting up on your "tip-toes".

The peroneal muscles, on the outside of your leg, help to keep you stable during activity, and also help turn the foot out (called eversion). Other smaller muscles on the front and inside of the leg help to flex and extend your foot and toes.

Ankle Tendons

The ankle tendons attach the muscles to the bones. The peroneal tendon, achilles tendon, and extensor tendons are just a few of the different tendons that comprise the ankle. These are all common sites of tendonitis in the ankle.

Summary

All of the muscles, bones, and ligaments work together to keep your ankle and foot in tip top shape. Understanding ankle anatomy is the first key to prevention and treatment of ankle injuries.

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