Ankle joint

Ankle Joint

The ankle joint, also known as the talocrural joint, is a synovial hinge joint that connects the distal ends of the tibia and fibula in the lower limb with the proximal end of the talus bone. The ankle joint is responsible for the up-and-down motion of the foot.

Structure

The ankle joint is composed of three bones: the tibia, fibula, and talus. The tibia and fibula are the two bones of the lower leg, and the talus is the bone that sits above the heel bone (calcaneus). The tibia and fibula are bound together by strong fibrous tissue known as the interosseous membrane, which provides stability to the joint.

The joint surface of all three bones is covered with articular cartilage, a smooth, slippery substance that protects and cushions the bones as you move your foot.

Function

The primary movements of the ankle joint are dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. Dorsiflexion is the upward movement of the foot, whereby the dorsum (top) of the foot comes closer to the anterior (front) part of the lower leg. Plantarflexion, on the other hand, is the movement that increases the approximate 90-degree angle between the front part of the foot and the lower leg.

Clinical significance

Injuries to the ankle joint are common and can result in conditions such as ankle sprain, ankle fracture, and ankle impingement. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgery.

See also

• Foot
• Human skeleton
• Joint
• Orthopedics