Fótlegg

Fótlegg is the lower leg, the portion of the limb between the knee and the ankle. It contains two long bones, the tibia and fibula, joined by an interosseous membrane. The knee provides proximal articulation; the ankle provides distal articulation with the foot. The tibia bears most weight; the fibula adds stability and muscle attachments.

Anatomy and compartments: The fótlegg is organized into anterior, lateral, and posterior compartments, each containing muscles, nerves, and vessels. Major muscles include the tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, and extensor hallucis longus in the anterior compartment; fibularis (peroneus) muscles in the lateral compartment; and the gastrocnemius and soleus in the posterior compartment, with deep flexors such as flexor digitorum longus and flexor hallucis longus. The nerves include the common fibular (peroneal) nerve and tibial nerve; arteries include the anterior and posterior tibial arteries. The crural fascia and intermuscular septa define these compartments.

Function: The fótlegg supports body weight and enables locomotion. Primary movements are dorsiflexion and toe elevation (anterior), plantarflexion (posterior), and, to a lesser extent, inversion and eversion at the ankle.

Clinical significance: The fótlegg is prone to fractures of the tibia or fibula, shin splints (medial tibial stress), calf strains, and Achilles tendon injuries. Compartment syndrome is a medical emergency. In children, growth plate injuries may involve the distal tibia or fibula.

Development and variation: The fótlegg develops from fetal cartilage and forms secondary ossification centers. In adults, bone length, muscle mass, and ligamentous laxity vary between individuals and influence injury risk.