Lower limb anatomy

Lower Limb Anatomy

The human body's lower limb anatomy refers to the structure and function of the lower extremities, which include the hip, thigh, knee, leg, ankle, and foot. These components work together to provide support, balance, and mobility for the body.

Hip

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint that connects the pelvis to the lower limb. It is responsible for bearing the body's weight during both movement and rest. The hip joint is formed by the articulation of the femur (thigh bone) and the acetabulum (a part of the pelvic bone).

Thigh

The thigh is the area between the hip and the knee. It contains one of the largest and strongest bones in the human body, the femur. The thigh is also home to several important muscles, including the quadriceps and the hamstrings, which are crucial for movement.

Knee

The knee is a hinge joint that connects the thigh to the leg. It is one of the most complex joints in the body, consisting of the femur, the tibia (shin bone), and the patella (knee cap). The knee allows for flexion and extension of the lower limb, as well as a limited degree of rotation.

Leg

The leg refers to the area between the knee and the ankle. It contains two bones: the larger tibia and the smaller fibula. The leg is also home to several muscles that control movement of the foot and toes.

Ankle

The ankle is a complex joint that connects the leg to the foot. It is formed by the interaction of the tibia, fibula, and the talus bone of the foot. The ankle allows for up-and-down movement of the foot.

Foot

The foot is the final component of the lower limb. It is a complex structure of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The foot is responsible for supporting the body's weight, acting as a shock absorber, and maintaining balance.

See Also

• Upper limb anatomy
• Human skeleton
• Muscular system