Ankle

The ankle is the region that connects the leg to the foot and forms a hinge-like joint capable of bearing the body's weight and allowing movements essential to gait. It comprises bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and surrounding soft tissues that work together to stabilize the limb during standing and locomotion.

The core bones are the tibia and fibula, which form the upper part of the ankle, and the talus, which sits beneath them and transmits forces to the foot. The distal ends of the tibia and fibula form the ankle mortise, a socket that articulates with the talus. The subtalar joint between the talus and calcaneus enables inversion and eversion. A fibrous syndesmosis between the tibia and fibula provides additional stability.

Stability is maintained by ligaments and tendons. Medially, the deltoid ligament supports the ankle on the inner side. Laterally, the anterior talofibular ligament, calcaneofibular ligament, and posterior talofibular ligament form the lateral ligament complex. The distal tibiofibular syndesmotic ligaments link the two bones above the ankle. Muscles crossing the ankle include the gastrocnemius and soleus via the Achilles tendon (plantarflexion), the tibialis anterior (dorsiflexion), and the peroneal and other posterior muscles, which contribute to movements and stabilization.

Common conditions affect the ankle's stability and function, with ankle sprains—especially inversion injuries—being the most frequent. Fractures of the malleoli or tibial plafond, Achilles tendon injuries, and degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis also occur. Diagnosis relies on clinical assessment and imaging (X-ray, with MRI or CT as needed). Treatment ranges from rest and rehabilitation to immobilization and, in some cases, surgical intervention.