Anklarna

Anklarna refers to the ankles, the joints and surrounding region where the foot meets the leg. In Swedish usage, anklarna is the plural form of ankel and is used to describe both ankles together, as well as the region around them in medical and common language.

Anatomy and structure: The ankle region includes the talocrural joint, formed by the tibia, fibula, and talus, which primarily allows up-and-down movement. The subtalar joint, between the talus and calcaneus, enables side-to-side motion. The ankle is stabilized by several ligaments, including the deltoid ligament on the inner side and the lateral ligament complex on the outer side (anterior talofibular, calcaneofibular, and posterior talofibular). The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, contributing to push-off during walking and running. Nerves and blood vessels run cerca the joints to supply sensation and blood flow.

Function: Ankels are essential for weight bearing and locomotion. They permit dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, as well as limited inversion and eversion, enabling balance, adapting to uneven surfaces, and absorbing impact during gait.

Common conditions: The most frequent injuries are ankle sprains, particularly from inversion injuries affecting the lateral ligaments. Fractures (including malleolar fractures), Achilles tendinopathy or rupture, and osteoarthritis can affect the ankle region. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion.

Management and care: Treatment ranges from rest, ice, compression, and elevation to immobilization or bracing for more severe injuries. Rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion, strength, and proprioception to reduce the risk of recurrence. Prevention includes proper footwear, gradual conditioning, and balance training.