Talus bone

Talus Bone

The Talus bone or ankle bone is one of the group of foot bones that transfers weight and forces between the lower limb and the foot. It is a short, stubby bone that is located between the tibia and fibula of the lower leg and the calcaneus (heel bone). The talus bone is an integral part of the ankle joint and the subtalar joint.

Anatomy

The talus bone is irregularly shaped and can be divided into three main parts: the body, the neck, and the head. The body is the largest part and is located posteriorly. The neck is the narrow, oblong section that connects the body to the head. The head is the rounded, anterior part of the talus that articulates with the navicular bone.

Function

The primary function of the talus bone is to serve as a connection between the foot and the leg, allowing for the transfer of weight and forces. It also plays a crucial role in foot movements such as walking, running, and jumping. The talus is unique in that it is the only bone in the body that has no muscular attachments, relying solely on ligamentous connections for stability.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the talus bone, such as fractures or dislocations, can be serious and potentially debilitating. Due to its unique blood supply, the talus is particularly susceptible to avascular necrosis (death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply) following injury. Treatment of talus injuries often involves surgery and a lengthy recovery period.

See Also

• Foot anatomy
• Ankle joint
• Subtalar joint
• Foot injuries