Collateral ligament of ankle joint

Collateral ligament of ankle joint is a complex structure in the human body that plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and functionality of the ankle joint. It is composed of several ligaments that work together to prevent excessive movement of the joint, thereby reducing the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.

Anatomy

The collateral ligament of the ankle joint is divided into two main components: the medial (or deltoid) ligament and the lateral ligament.

Medial Ligament

The medial ligament, also known as the deltoid ligament, is a strong, triangular ligament located on the inner side of the ankle. It is attached at one end to the tibia and at the other end to the navicular bone, the calcaneus, and the three cuneiform bones. The medial ligament is composed of deep and superficial layers, which provide support to the joint and prevent excessive eversion.

Lateral Ligament

The lateral ligament is located on the outer side of the ankle. It consists of three separate ligaments: the anterior talofibular ligament, the posterior talofibular ligament, and the calcaneofibular ligament. These ligaments connect the fibula to the calcaneus and talus, providing stability and preventing excessive inversion.

Function

The primary function of the collateral ligament of the ankle joint is to provide stability to the ankle. It achieves this by limiting the range of motion of the joint, particularly inversion and eversion. This helps to prevent injuries such as ankle sprains, which are often caused by excessive inversion or eversion.

Clinical Significance

Injuries to the collateral ligament of the ankle joint, particularly the lateral ligament, are common in sports and physical activities that involve running, jumping, and sudden changes in direction. These injuries, known as ankle sprains, can range from mild to severe and may require various treatments, including rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.